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ASSOCIATION OF RETIRED SCS EMPLOYEES FRIENDS REMEMBERED We sadly miss the following members of the SCS family that have passed away. Our sympathy and prayers are with their families and friends. |
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There are 794 Conservationists honored in alphabetical order by last name to see a list click here!
To go directly to the following retirees click on the name in the following table:
Julia "Judy" Martin (89) passed away July 16, 2008. Judy was the wife of the late Vernon "Swede" Martin. Swede, a past President of ARSCSE, retired in Dec. 1979 from SCS as the Director of the SNTC. He had earlier served as State Conservationist in a couple of states. Judy was often at his side at ARSCSE, SCS, and SWCS activities. She is survived by a son, Vernon; a daughter, Judy Ostervold; 5 grandchildren; and 11 great grand children. Memorials may go to the Judith Karnes Hospice, PO Box 818, Stillwater, OK 74076.
Drucie Scaling passed away July 15, 2008. Drucie was the wife of Wilson Scaling former Chief of NRCS. She was very active with the Earth Team while Wilson was Chief. Wilson can be reached at PO Box 476, Henrietta, TX 76365. His phone number is 940/476-2404.
Kenneth Temple (84) passed away July 3, 2008. Kenneth retired in 1979 as a Soil Conservation Technician in the Toledo, IL Field Office. He is survived by his wife, Mary Lee; a son, Eric; daughters Glenda Taggart and Rebecca Temple; and 2 grandchildren and one great grandchild.
Senior Conservationist Kenneth J. Good (92) passed away July 1, 2008. Ken retired as an area Soil Scientist in Nebraska in May 1974 after 31 years with SCS. Memorials may go to the American Heart Association.
Harvey W. Neemann (75) passed away on July 1, 2008. Harvey was an Engineer Technician with SCS in Nebraska at the time of his retirement. He is survived by a son, Karl; and 2 grandchildren. His wife, Doris, his wife, Doris, preceded his death.
James A. Shank (83) passed away June 29, 2008. Jim retired as an Engineering Technician with the Ohio Watershed Planning Unit in Nov. 1984 after 28 years. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Jane; sons Jim, and David; and 4 grand children. Memorials may go to the Community UMC Building Fund, 120 N Pickaway St., Circleville, OH 43113.
John Peterson recalls "Jim worked on my staff when I was the planning engineer in Ohio. He was a superb person and wonderful technician."
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist John T. " Jack" Phelan (95) passed away on June 26, 2008. Jack retired from SCS in April 1974 as the Director of Engineering. Earlier he had served as the Team Leader for the India project and as the Irrigation Engineer in the Lincoln, Engineering and Watershed Planning Unit. He retired as a Commander from the Navy Reserve. His wife, Lucille, passed away several years ago. Surviving are his son, Jim; daughter Marie Powell; 4 grand children and 2 great grandchildren. Memorials may go to Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, Suite 225, 875 N. Randolph St., Arlington, VA 22203-1757 or to Saint Charles Catholic Church, 3304 N Washington Blvd., Arlington, VA. The family can be reached at Marie Powell, 501 Manchester, Arlington, VA 22203.
Harry B. Obrist (83) passed away June 23, 2008. Harry spent 42 years with SCS in Nebraska. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Betty; daughter, Diane; sons Kevin and Kent; and 2 granddaughters.
David Lee Racey (61) passed away June 16, 2008. David spent his career with SCS/NRCS as a Soil Scientist. He is survived by his wife, Diana; daughter, Kimberley Brake; Son, Kevin; stepdaughter, Wendy Vann; stepson, Aaron Vann; and three grandchildren. Memorials may go to the Nature Conservancy, Gift Processing Center, PO Box 6014, Albert Lea, MN 56007-9984.
Willis "Will" E. Hanna (69) passed away June 15, 2008. Will retired in April 1994 as the State Soil Scientist for SCS. He is survived by his wife, Gerry, and their children-Mark, and Bridget and 3 grandchildren. Memorials may go to the Morrisville Lions Club, % Peggy Kendall, Pres., PO Box 348, Morrisville, NY 13408.
James W. Dye III (87) passed away June 4, 2008. Jim was a Soil Scientist in Kentucky when he retired in 1976. He is survived by his wife, Ruth; children-Pat, Bob, and Nancy Alford; 8 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Memorials may go to the choice of the donor.
Doris Schledorn (83) passed away June 3, 2008. Doris was the wife of Senior Conservationist Frank Schledorn. They were married for nearly 65 years. Frank retired from SCS as an Engineer in Montana. Memorials may be made to the Pilgrim Church for the Memorial Garden and Founders Circle project or to the Bozeman Deaconness Hospice Program.
Dennis L. Berkstresser (65) passed away June 2, 2008. Dennis retired in 1996 as the State Administrative Officer for North Carolina. He started his career with SCS/NRCS in Harrisburg, PA. He is survived by his wife, Jean, and three daughters-Kelly Bolz, Tracy Shultz, and Julie Janeczko.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Clark H. Elliott (98) passed away recently (reported 6/08). Clark retired in April 1974 as the Assistant State Administrative Officer for Colorado.
Levi Beckwith (88) passed away May 26, 2008. Levi was an Administrative Clerk in the State Office in North Carolina when he retired in 1981. He is survived by his wife, Hattie; daughter, Gwendolyn Talley; son, Gregory; 8 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.
Joe Kunzel passed away May 21, 2008. Joe was a Conservation Technician in Wahoo, NE at the time of his retirement.
Donald H. Folkerts (82) passed away May 19, 2008. Don spent 25 years with SCS in Kansas retiring in July 1990. In WWII, Don served in the U. S. Navy as Boatswain's Mate, Second Class aboard the USS Agawam. He witnessed the surrender of Japan and was awarded the Victory Medal, American Campaign Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Medal, and the Phillippine Liberation Campaign Ribbon. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Helen, and three daughters and 2 sons.
Don Wayne Stevens passed away May 9, 2008 in an accident while mowing. Don retired from NRCS in Texas. He is survived by his wife, Barbara, 4 daughters, and numerous grandchildren.
Margaret Myers passed away in May 2008. Margaret was the wife of Keith Myers. Keith passed away several years ago. At the time of his retirement Keith was the Director of the Midwest NTC.
Miranda Grynkewicz (77) passed away April 25, 2008. Miranda retired from NRCS in 2003 as a computer specialist. She is survived by sons-Franklin and Robert; daughter, Jane; and 3 grandchildren. Memorials may go to the American Lung Association or to the World Wildlife Fund.
Nadine Evans passed away April 17, 2008. She was the wife of Charlie Evans. Charlie retired as a State Conservationist in SCS and passed away in 2001. She is survived by a son, Dick Powell and a daughter, Deanna Powell, 7 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. Memorials may go to the First Methodist Church, 400 W Seventh, Stillwater, OK 74076 or Judith Karmen Hospice, PO Box 818, Stillwater, OK 74076.
Norman Zimmerman (79) passed away April 13, 2008. "Norm" worked as a Conservation Technician at Mott and Dickenson, ND. He retired in 1986. He is survived by his sons, Lon, and Curt; and 2 grandchildren. Memorials may go to the United Church of Christ, Bismarck, ND.
James E. Martin (93) passed away April 12, 2008. Jim worked as an Engineering Technician on the Potomac Basin Project in Harrisonburg, VA and then on the Watershed Planning Staff in Richmond, VA until his retirement. He is survived by his wife, Avis; son, Douglas; daughters Violet Roberts and Glinda Powell. He is also survived by 6 grandchildren. Memorials may go to Concord Rescue Squad, PO Box 48, Concord, VA 24538.
Loetta F. Korenski (81) passed away April 10, 2008. Loetta was a Contract Specialist with NRCS at the time of her retirement. She is survived by a son, David; daughter, Donna; 4 grand children; and 5 great grandchildren.
Raleigh L. Redman (61) passed away April 4, 2008. Raleigh retired from NRCS in Missouri as an Area Resource Conservationist in 2003. He is survived by his wife, Nancy, and 2 daughters-Lindsey Redman and Lisa Redman. Memorials may go to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Assn, Seattle, Washington.
Lanell Walker passed away recently (reported 4/08). Lanell and her husband, John, were both SCS employees and started their careers in Ft. Worth, TX.
Frances Barnes passed away March 28, 2008. Frances was the wife of R. C. Barnes who retired from the National Office as Agricultural Engineer in the Engineering Division. He came to the National Office from Virginia where he was the State Conservation Engineer. R. C. passed away a number of years ago. Frances is survived by their son, Bruce. The family has asked that memorials be sent to; Central Texas Senior Ministries-Meals on Wheels, PO Box 85, Waco. TX 76703.
David Brill (91) passed away on March 26, 2008. David retired from the Soil Conservation Service in Ohio. He is survived by his son, Dean, 2 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. Memorials may go to the Worthington Christian Village, 165 Highbluffs, Columbus, OH 43235.
Michael Paul White (66) passed away March 20,2008. Mike was a civil engineer (design and construction) on the state staff in Orono for several years before accepting the position of district conservationist for the Central Aroostook Soil and Water Conservation District before retiring. He worked closely with numerous farmers throughout Aroostook County, receiving numerous local, state and federal awards for his work. Mike's positive influence was extended even further with involvement in activities such as "The Potato Pickers Special," Boys Brigade at the local church and Castle Hill Planning Board. Mike was always an avid outdoorsman, enjoying the peace and solitude that nature provided. He enjoyed fishing and working at the family's tree farm.
Senior Conservationist Norman Berg (90) passed away on March 18, 2008 following complications of a heart attack. Norm had reached 90 just 4 days prior to his death. He retired as Chief of the Soil Conservation Service in 1982. He also served as Associate Administrator and in Idaho and South Dakota. During his long career with SCS he provided guidance and leadership to many employees as they progressed through their careers. Following his retirement he became the senior advisor to American Farmland Trust a position he held at the time of his death. He also worked closely with the Soil and Water Conservation Society after his retirement. In 1997 the Secretary of Agriculture named him Chief Emeritus for NRCS. His wife of 58 years, Ruth, preceded him in death. He is survived by 4 daughters, Susan Morgan, Jane Paulsen, Pamela Lieb, and Rebecca Crofton. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Farmland Trust, 1200 18th St. NW, Washington, DC 20036 or to the Norm and Ruth Berg Conservation Fellowship Program, SWCS, 945 SW Ankeny Rd., Ankeny, IA 50023.
Robert A. Corthell (87) passed away March 8, 2008. Bob retired as a Biologist for SCS in the Portland, OR NTC. He is survived his companion, Lorraine Johnson, children-David, Alisa Geary, and Katie Corthell, and by 5 grandchildren. Memorials may go to the Coos Bay Chapel, Coos Bay, OR.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Julius J. Post (95) passed away March 2, 2008. Julius retired from SCS in July 1970 as the Staff Economist on the Watershed Planning and River Basin Staff. Most of his career was spent in Texas and Louisiana. Julius started his career in the CCC’s in 1935. His wife of nearly 56 years preceded him in death. He is survived by his son, Lynn(Retired from NRCS in 2001), daughters Ann Pustejovsky, and Kathy Riordan, and by 3 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Memorials may go to the Pose Endowment Fund, Crestview United Methodist Church, 1300 Morrow, Austin, TX 78757.
Fines F. Sturgeon (88) passed away March 2, 2008. Fines worked for SCS as a construction inspector for thirty years. He is survived by his wife, Goldie; 3 daughters; seven grandchildren; and 10 great grandchildren.
Harold W. “Hal” Biggerstaff (89) passed away March 1, 2008. He worked as a soil scientist in Oregon, Nebraska, Idaho, and Hawaii and later with the Agency for International Development serving in Nigeria, Afghanistan and Egypt retiring in 1980 to Hayden Lake, Idaho. In 1938 & 1939 he served with the Civilian Conservation Corps in Alaska. Hal and Helen moved to Spokane, WA in 1996. He also served in the Air Force in World War II. He is survived by his wife Helen, daughters Sandy, Anita and Nola, and by son Larry.
Noble D. Allen (80) passed away March 1, 2008. Noble retired after 25 years with SCS as a Core Drill Operator. His wife, Sidney, preceded him in death. He is survived by sons, Tommie and Tim; daughter, Bonnie Fowler; and 3 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Memorials may go to Pennroyal Hospice, 101 W 18th St., Hopkinsville, KY or the American Cancer Society, Attn: Dee Eggers, 203 Choctaw Dr., Cadiz, KY 42211.
Ted Coats (90) passed away February 29, 2008. Ted retired from SCS as a Construction Inspector at the Grenada, MS office. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Audrey; son, Filo; and 2 grandchildren. Memorials may be made to Gideon's International, PO Box 36, Grenada, MS 38901 or to the Friendship Baptist Church, 475 Pearidge Rd, Grenada, MS 38901.
Kilby C. Lanier (72) passed away February 29, 2008. Kilby retired in August 1993 as Assistant State Conservationist in Kentucky. He is survived by his wife, Anne; daughter Lisa; son, John; step-daughters, Carol, Stephanie, and Stacey; step-sons, David, and Shawn; 14 grandchildren; and 5 great grandchildren. Memorials may go to Destiny Community Church, 4101 Tates Creek Center, PMB 334, Lexington, KY 40517 or the American Heart Association.
Lionel L “Leon” Smith (94) passed away February 28, 2008. Leon left SCS after serving as the District Conservationist in Mason County, WV and joined the US Corps of Engineers as a Realty Specialist. He was preceded in death by his wife. Surviving is daughter, Marlyn; son, William; and 9 grandchildren.
B. Jean Saltness (81) passed away February 24, 2008. Jean was the wife of Gerald "Salty" Saltness. "Salty" served as a Technician at Fessenden, ND and as a Construction Inspector at Grafton, ND. He retired in 1980. Jean is survived by sons, Gerald, Jim, and Clark; and 6 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.
Aubrey L. Fly passed away February 24, 2008. Aubrey was on the Watershed Planning Staff in TN until he resigned and established his own engineering firm in Nashville. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Jane; children-Christopher, Susan, and Jonathan; and 3 grandchildren. The family suggests memorials go to charity as chosen by donor.
Ernie Dierks (94) passed away February 23, 2008, at a St. Paul, MN, hospital. Ernie worked at the Washburn, ND office from 1948 until he retired as District Conservationist in 1971. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Maythel; three daughters, Judith (John) Marshall, Janel (John) Heroff, and JoAnn Nick, eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
Tom Finnerty passed away February 22, 2009. Tom was the RC&D Coordinator at Wheatland, WY at the time of his retirement in 1988. His wife, Anita, survives. Also surviving are-Daughters, Karol, Beth, Patty, and Colleen; sons, Jim, Tim, Marty, and Tommy; 20 grandchildren; and 2 great grand children. Anita can be reached at 1354 Sunset Dr., Wheatland, WY 82201. Memorials may go to Hospice.
Clentis Pool passed away February 22, 2008. Clentis retired as the District Conservationist at Summerville, GA. His wife, Betty, survives. She can be contacted at 68 Tyler St., Summerville, GA 30747-2131.
Senior Conservationist Damon "Ozzie" Keairns (95) passed away February 20, 2008. Ozzie started his career in the Soil Erosion Service in 1934. He started his career as an Engineer in Ohio. He later was an Assistant State Conservationist in both Illinois and Oklahoma. He retired in 1968 and continued to live in Stillwater until the death of his bride of 66 years, Thelma. Ozzie then moved to the Pittsburg, PA area to be near his son, Dale. Dale and a grandson, Carter survives.
Neil Bogner remembers Ozzie as "the person that interviewed me when I first contacted SCS about employment. He set up my first summer as a summer trainee. Any time I got to OK he had to spend some quality time with me. He was an unusually warm person and really enjoyed his work, being with fellow employees, and life in general."
Senior Conservationist Henry O. Blunier (93) passed away February 16, 2008. Henry retired in June 1974 after spending his career in Peoria and Woodford Counties, Illinois. He is survived by his wife, Wilma and six daughters-Nancy Kepp, Evelyn Mogler, Doris Blunier, Edith Stoller, Marjorie Parmenter, and Karen Blunier. Memorials may go to the Apostolic Christian Home for the Handicapped, 2125 Veterans Rd., Morton, IL 61550.
Myrtle Lawhon (92) passed away February 11, 2008. Myrtle spent her career with SCS in Texas. She is survived by her daughter, Pat Echols and family.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Hartzell C. Dean (99) passed away February 4, 2008. He retired in June 1973 as the State Soil Scientist in Arkansas. He was preceded in death by his wife, Jeanette. He is survived by his son Donald, daughter, Janet Upchurch, 10 grandchildren and 31 great grand children. Hartzell’s twin brother, Harold, also an Honorary Member passed away in 2004.
Geneva Anderson Vanover (86) passed away January 30, 2008. Geneva’s husband, Sam, retired as the District Conservationist at Lancaster, KY.
George E. Haymond (89) passed away January 27, 2008. George retired in 1980 as the State Administrative Officer in Kentucky. He is survived by his wife, Marjorie, children- Dwight, Reginald, Sharon, and John; 9 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren and one great great grandchild. Memorials may go to Shriners Hospital or Aldersgate United Methodist Church Building Fund.
Senior Conservationist John F. Nigro (90) passed away January 26, 2008. John retired, after 35 years, in January 1982 as a District Conservationist at Troy, NY. He is survived by four sons; John, Richard, Joseph, and Thomas; and 2 grandchildren. Memorials may go to the St. Jude the Apostle Church, Brookside Ave., Wynantskill, NY 12198.
Paul G. DuMont (70) passed away January 25, 2008. Paul retired in 1991 from SCS as an Editor in the National Office. Paul was an avid bird watcher with a list of 829 US birds seen. Paul is survived by his sisters, Annie Weinreich, Caroline Jones and Joan Bowman.
Eugene R. Fellows (76) passed away January 22, 2008. Gene was with SCS/NRCS for 31 years. He retired as the Dist. Conservationist at Morrisville, VT. He is survived by his wife, LilaLee, children and grandchildren and one great granddaughter. Memorials may go to the Green Mountain Conservation Camp Endowment Fund, Vermont Fish and Wildlife Dept., 103 S. Main St., 10 South, Waterbury, VT 05671.
Kenneth L. Doe (81) passed away January 21, 2008. He worked for many years as a geologist and retired as state Geologist for Nebraska. He is survived by his wife, Geraldine, 4 daughters, 13 grandchildren and 1 great grand child. Memorials may go to the Warren United Methodist Church Foundation, 1205 N 45th St., Lincoln, NE 68506. Geraldine lives at 925 El Alvado Ave, Lincoln, NE 68504.
Lynn “Buzz” Bereuter (89) passed away January 20, 2008 at St. Alexis Medical Center. He worked in Washington, DC, and as Watershed Planning Party Leader in Fargo and Bismarck, ND. He loved his career, but his favorite job was retirement. He was a former ARSCSE State Representative for ND. He is survived by his wife Bette of nearly 64 years, one daughter, Linda; one son, Larry(Janna) and one grand-daughter, Erika Lynn.
Senior Conservationist Ned A. Hood (97) passed away January 19, 2008. Ned started his career with the CCC’s in Davidson County, NC. He started with SCS in 1935. He retired as the District Conservationist in Yadkinville, NC in May 1971. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Logene; a son, William; 2 grandsons. Memorials may go to Yadkin Christian Ministries, PO Box 204, Yadkinville, NC 27055.
Ann Owen (88) passed away January 13, 2008. Ann was with SCS for many years in the Chase City, VA office. She is survived by her husband of 57 years, J Jack Owen, daughter Jackie Jefferson and 2 grandchildren. Memorials may go to the Wylliesburg Presbyterian Church, PO Box 48, Wylliesburg, VA 23976.
Leo E. Downing passed away January 8, 2008. Leo retired in 1985 as the District Conservationist in Bryan Co., OK. Leo was very active in his community and served as an officer in numerous organizations. He is survived by his wife, Juanita; sons-John, Jerry, Roy, Charles, and Jim; daughter Sherell Mattingly; 15 grandchildren; and 10 great grandchildren.
Senior Conservationist Walter C. Menear (84) passed away January 5, 2008. Walter was one of the very last Auto Mechanics that serviced SCS vehicles. He served several states and is especially remember for his work in West Virginia. His wife, Geraldine, survives. Also surviving are daughters, Judy Sutton, and Pamela Whittaker.
Senior Conservationist Donnell “Don” Sylvester (84) passed away January 1, 2008. Don spent 38 years with SCS. He retired as State Range Conservationist in New Mexico in May 1984. Earlier he had served in Nebraska and Wyoming. Don served as the ARSCSE Representative for NM for many years. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Dora; their children, Nancy, John, Mary; 6 grand children and 4 great grandchildren. Memorials may go to the Christian Veterinary Mission, 19303 Fremont Ave., N Seattle, WA 98133 or to the Heights First Church of the Nazarene, Choir Ministry, 8401 Paseo Del Norte, Albuquerque, NM.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Thomas B Evans (94) passed away December 25, 2007. His wife, Frances Melina, passed away in August 2007, after 73 years of marriage. Tom retired from SCS in June 1974. He enjoyed a lengthy and distinguished career with the Soil Conservation Service in Utah, Maryland, West Virginia, Indiana and Oregon. He graduated from the University of Maine, and a served as a naval officer in both World War II and the Korean War. He is survived by his son Thomas L., and daughters Linda and Virginia; four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Robert Michael Welsh passed away December 20, 2007. Michael was the son of Jerry and Alice Welsh. Jerry retired from SCS in 1990 as the Research Coordinator in the National Office. Mike is survived by his parents and brother, Marc. Memorials may go to Gideon’s International, PO Box 1448, Little River, SC 29566 or to Camp Days, 1622 Ashley Hall Rd., Charleston, SC 29407.
Benjamin J. Puza (81) passed away December 16, 2007. He retired in 1980 after 26 years with Soil Conservation Service in Wyoming and Sullivan Counties in PA. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Elsie; three sons-David, Dennis, and Donald; three granddaughters; 6 grandsons and 8 great grandchildren. Memorials may go to the Riverside Park Commission or the Tunkhannock Tree Association.
Dean R. Isaacs (92) retired Range Conservationist passed away December 15, 2007 in Kerrville, Texas. He was a native of Scranton, Kansas and a graduate of Fort Hays Kansas State College. He served in World War II and was a decorated veteran serving in Germany. He was a Range Specialists with the SCS and worked in several locations, mainly in South Texas. He was a member of the Range Management Society, Medina Rotary Club and served as a volunteer in many community projects. He was a long standing member of the Medina United Methodist Church. He was preceeded in death by his wife, Florence. He is survived by two step sons, David Goss and George Goss. Dean was a highly respected employee.
Raymond P Curran, Jr. (62) passed away December 5, 2007. Ray was Field Engineer in the Hadley, MA NRCS office at the time of his retirement in 2005. Ray also served as an Engineer in the Navy Sea Bees. He is survived by Mary,his wife of 33 years, a son Dr. Raymond P Curran III, daughter Debra Lizon and son Tim Curran.
John E. “Jack” Webb, Sr. (81) passed away December 3, 2007. Jack retired as the Economist for the Watershed/River Basin Planning Party in the state office, Raleigh, NC. He served in the armed forces during WWII. He loved the game of tennis and enjoyed researching family genealogy. Jack is survived by his wife of 55 years, Amy, of Cary, NC, four children, 20 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
Stanley G. Vistica (76) passed away December 3, 2007. Stanley retired from SCS in 1976. He was working in Marion Co., Oregon at the time of his retirement. He is survived by his wife, Joan; sons-Rodney, George, and Timothy; daughter, Vicki; and 6 grandchildren. Memorials may go to the American Heart Association or the Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Marcus Bostian (92) passed away November 29, 2007. Marcus retired as a Soil Scientist in the Statesville Area Office, North Carolina. He was born in Alexander County and served in the US Air Force during World War II. Marcus was a 32nd degree Mason, a member of the Scottish Rite and Greensboro Masonic Lodge. Survivors include his wife of 54 years, Helen Wilson Bostian and a son, Marcus “Mark” Wilson Bostian of Claremont.
Hazel B. LeBlanc (78) passed away November 26, 2007. She retired from SCS as a Secretary in 1990. She is survived by her husband, Robert; sons Larry and Greg; daughters Linda and Gloria. Memorials may be made to the Central Oregon Home Health and Hospice, 2698 NE Courtney Dr., Suite 101, Bend, OR 97701.
Leslie H. Monke (89) passed away November 26, 2007. Les retired as the District Conservationist in Champaign Co., IL. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, LaVonne, three sons-David, Daryl, and Roger. Also surviving are 2 grandsons and 6 great grandchildren. Memorials may go to the St. John Lutheran Church, 509 S. Mattis Ave., Champaign, IL.
Marcus Bray (84) passed away after a single-car accident near Brookville, IN on Nov. 23, 2007. Marcus retired from the U.S. Navy as a Chief Warrant Officer after 23 years of service before joining the SCS.
Jack C. Williams, retired Soil Scientist passed away suddenly on November 19, 2007 in Temple, Texas. He was 79 years of age. Jack was a native of Paris, Texas and grew up in the small East Texas town of Blossom. He was a graduate of Texas A & M in the class of 1950 with a degree in Agronomy. He retired in Temple after serving some 10 years on the State Staff as a Field Specialist for Soil Survey. Jack was highly respected as a soil scientist and as an employee of the SCS. He was married to Nita Spear and is survived by his wife, a daughter and son as well as 5 grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
Talmadge T. Weddle (84) passed away November 17, 2007. “Tap” retired after 45 years with SCS in Virginia. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Edna, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
Senior Conservationist Stanley A. Zauha (90) passed away November 12, 2007. Stanley retired as Administrative Officer for SCS in Nebraska on Dec. 24, 1975. He is survived by sons, Thomas, and Kevin; and daughters, Joan and Janelle. Memorials may go to St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 26th and State, Boise, ID.
Milt Spence (86) passed away November 11, 2007. Milt fell and fractured a disc in his back in May and never recovered. He graduated from Southern Illinois University and served in the Navy during World War II. He was a DC in Evansville, IN for several years. In the late 1960’s he briefly served overseas as agricultural advisor to the South Vietnamese government. He retired from the Indianapolis Watershed Planning Staff.
Jasper R. Cave (74) passed away November 11, 1007. Jasper retired as Soil Conservation Technician in Allegheny County, North Carolina. He was a quiet Christian gentleman who always had a big smile. He was a native of Surry County. He is survived by his wife, Virginia, of 46 years and one daughter and two sons and their families. Also surviving are three sisters and two brothers.
Wesley “Wes” Sanders (76) passed away November 10, 2007. Wes retired in 1986 as the District Conservationist in St. Croix County, WI. He is survived by his wife, Joyce; 2 daughters, Elaine Gonering, and Kathy Pankratz; 2 sons, David and James; and 8 grandchildren.
Walter J. Messer passed away November 8, 2007. Walter retired in April 1978 as a District Conservationist in Ohio. His wife, Virginia, survives. She may be contacted at 1813 Hillstone Dr., Finley, OH 45840.
Margie Wolfe passed away November 3, 2007. Margie’s husband, Paxton, retired as the State Forester in PA. Paxton’s address is 119 Lancaster Blvd., Mechanicsburg, PA 17055.
Clarence Maesner (73) passed away November 2, 2007. Clarence retired from NRCS as the Head, Ecological Sciences Staff in the Portland NTC. Prior to that he was the Recreation Specialist. He is survived by his wife, Rosalinda.
Vernon E. Johnson (90) passed away within the past year (reported Nov 07). Vernon retired as the Resource Conservationist in MA in 1976. For the last several years he served as the ARSCSE Representative in MA.
William C. Fecke (71) passed away October 31, 2007. Bill retired from the Water Resource Division in the National Office. Prior to joining the National Office he worked in Pennsylvania. Bill is survived by his wife, Sue, and children-William, Paul, Tyrone, Stephanie, Shannan, Emma and 18 grandchildren. Memorials may go to the American Heart Association in Bill’s name.
Charles Baird (66) passed away October 18, 2007. Charlie worked as an Engineer for SCS/NRCS in Texas and retired Jan. 1, 2000. He is survived by his wife, Gail, sons Rob and Reese. Memorials may go to St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, 305 N 30th, Waco, TX 76710.
Stephen G Claughton (69) passed away October 17, 2007. Steve was Design Engineer in the Amherst, MA office and retired in 1995. He is survived by Carol, his wife of 40 years, daughters Sarah and Dana and son Stephen. Steve was a man who held dear many things in this life, his faith, family, and friends.
Noah W. Hudson (86) passed away October 7, 2007. Noah spent his career with SCS in Vermont. He served at Poultney, Manchester Center, Bennington, and Montpelier. He retired in 1985. His wife, Barbara, survives. Memorials may go to the Lyndonville First Congregational Church, PO Box 193, Lyndonville, VT 05851.
Marge Ralston passed away recently (Oct 2007) in Colorado. Her husband, Bill, retired as the Legislative Assistant in the National Office.
Robert “ Bob” Burris (60) died suddenly October 4, 2007. Bob retired as Assistant State Conservationist in Ohio. He is survived by his wife, Cynthia, sons-Eric and Brooks and 4 grandchildren. The family suggests that memorials go to the Burris Memorial Academic Scholarship Fund, c/o Citizens Bank of Logan, 188 W Main St., Logan, OH 43138.
Allan Draper passed away September 22, 2007. Allan retired as a Conservation Technician at Hillsboro, IL.
Fred F. Wetter (89) passed away September 19, 2007. Fred started his career in Washington and served in several locations in that State. After retirement he had a tree farm in Idaho. He is survived by his wife, Addie, son Monte, and daughter Maribeth.
Daniel "Dan" E. Boone (79) retired District Conservationist at Carthage, Texas passed away September 11, 2007. He was a graduate of Texas A & M University and served in the military during the Berlin crises. He was the commander of the National Guard in Carthage for a number of years. He retired from the SCS with 33 years of service. He is survived by his wife, Elanore, four children and seven grandchildren.
Doris J. McMullen (83) passed way September 11, 2007. Doris was in the Administrative and Financial Sections of the LA State Office. At the time of her retirement, April 1983, she was Secretary to the State Conservationist.
Charles “Charlie” Nix (80) passed away September 7, 2007. Charlie retired in Feb. 1985 as a Hydrologist on the River Basin and Watershed Planning staff in the LA State Office.
Marion Carstens (90) passed away September 4, 2007. Marion retired in March 1976 from the Idaho Snow Survey Section following 20 years with that Section. During her time with Snow Survey the groundwork was laid for the technological changes that moved data collection from manual measurements to the automated SNOTEL system.
Senior Conservationist Ivan D. Smith (85) passed away August 31, 2007. Ivan retired from SCS in Dec. 1982 as the District Conservationist at Coldwater, KS. His wife, Marjorie, survives as well as 2 daughters, Ivalee Vanderhoff and Juanita Hanhardt, 4 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. Memorials may go to the Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Reno County, in care of the Elliott Mortuary, 1219 Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.
Ruthie Darling (72) passed away August 24, 2007. Ruthie was retired from NRCS at Janesville, WI.
Harvey H. King (88) passed away August 19, 2007. Harvey retired from the SCS Engineering Office in Temple, TX. He was with Freese and Nichols after his retirement. His wife, Dorothy, passed away in June 2007. He is survived by his daughter, Janis Knight. Janis can be reached at 201 Elder Oak Dr., DeSoto, TX 75115. Memorials may go to Mission Arlington, 210 W South St., Arlington, TX 76011.
John Micheel and his wife Shirley, passed away August 18, 2007. They were on their way home from a family get-together in Ettrick, WI when their car was swept away by a gush of water on County Road 23, just north of Stockton, MN. He worked on flood control measures for Garvin Brook as a Soil and Water Conservationist. The very stream he knew so well snuck up and killed him and his wife. He worked for 37 years for SCS/NRCS and was named Conservationist of the Year in 2006 by the Minnesota Conservation Federation.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Harold Grogger (95) passed away August 16, 2007. Harold was born May 15, 1912, in Solomon, KS, and earned a Union Pacific scholarship to attend Kansas State University, where he graduated in 1935 with a degree in economics. Harold retired in Oct. 1969 as the State Soil Scientist in Missouri. His early career as a soil scientist took him to Illinois, Iowa and Wisconsin. He settled in Columbia Missouri in 1944 and remained there until his death. In retirement he worked for the State of Missouri, University of Missouri, Corps of Engineers and the Missouri Conservation Commission until finally fully retiring in 1984. Irene, his wife of 69 years, passed away last year. Harold was active and vigorous until the end. He enjoyed tracking his various investments on the computer, and became an adept user of his VCR, cable TV remote controls and other modern gizmos that he always indicated he could not possibly have dreamed would ever exist when he was a boy growing up in rural Kansas. He was a voracious reader of local newspapers and an avid follower of Mizzou athletics, the St. Louis Cardinals, St. Louis Rams, Kansas City Chiefs, and any other sporting event which happened to grace the television in front of his recliner. He is survived by his daughter, Connie and son, Robert, 2 grandchildren, and 4 great grandchildren. He has asked that rather than anyone thinking of a memorial use it for their own family.
Helen M. Stoneciper (86) passed away August 14, 2007. Helen retired from SCS in August 1984 as the Area Clerk at Carbondale, IL. Earlier she worked in the State Offices in Missouri and Illinois. Prior to working for SCS she, and her late husband, were publishers of newspapers in Washington, MO and Arcola, IL. Memorials may go to the Stonecipher Scholarship Fund (for journalism scholarships) at SIU Foundation, Mail Code 6805, Carbondale, IL 62901.
James C. Brown (J. C.) retired Assistant State Conservationist for Texas passed away August 13, 2007. J. C. was a graduate of Texas A & M University and worked for some 29 years at several locations in Texas, retiring in 1994. J. C. also served 29 years in the U.S. Army reserves, retiring at the rank of Lt. Colonel. He is survived by his wife Mary Lou, and one son, two daughters and seven grandchildren. J. C. will be remembered for his dedication, gentle spirit and his concern for finding a cure for Parkinson’s disease.
Charles E. Martin passed way July 30, 2007. “Bo” was a Soil Scientist for much of his career. He retired in Oct. 1992 as the District Conservationist in West Monroe, LA.
Basil “Buster” Lucado (94) passed away July 25, 2007. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Lorene, three children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren.
Senior Conservationist Wilbur Shisler passed away July 21, 2007. Wilbur spent the bulk of his career as a District Conservationist in Ohio. He also was on the Watershed Planning Staff. He is survived by his wife, Marie; by his daughters Margaret, and Marilyn; by 3 grandchildren and by 4 great grandchildren. Her address is 551 Beechwood Dr, Wooster, OH 44691. Memorials may go to the Mennonite Central Committee Connections, Box 19, Kidron, OH 44636 or to Habitat for Humanity, Wayne County, 1451 Spruce St. Ext., Wooster, OH 44691.
Daryl Ray Eckert (43) passed away suddenly on July 19, 2007 in Boerne, Texas. Daryl was serving as the District Conservationist for Kendall County. He is survived by his wife Rhonda and two sons.
Robert E. Hovel (84) passed away in Temple, Texas on July 18, 2007. Bob served some 32 years with the SCS working in Laredo, Edinburg, Harlingen and retiring in Temple after several years as Assistant State Conservationist for Operations. Bob was a veteran of World War II and served with the 42nd Rainbow Division. He was a native of San Antonio and a 1945 graduate of Texas A & M University. Bob was a very dedicated person during his career. He held only the highest standards for himself and those that he worked with. He is survived by his wife Ruth and three sons. Two sons preceded him in death.
Karl Hellerick (79) passed away June 26, 2007. Karl was a District Conservationist for 33 years at several locations in Pennsylvania. His death was the result of injuries from a tractor accident. He had a reputation as having the “best tasting strawberries in Bucks County.”
Senior Conservationist John K. Maddy (90) passed away June 16, 2007. John retired in Jan. 1978 as the State Conservation Agronomist for Iowa. He earlier served as a District Conservationist at LeMars, IA. He is survived by his wife, Wilma, their children-John, Marilyn and Marshall and by 2 grandchildren.
Donald W. Nanson (78) passed away June 13, 2007 at his home in Spokane, Washington. Don worked in Colville, Pomeroy, Selah, Spokane, Okanogan and Yakima SCS offices and five years in Olympia, on loan to the WA State Conservation Commission 208 program (water quality). He is survived by his wife Kay, 3 daughters, Laurie, Mary and Chris, and six grandchildren.
Lillian Warner (87) passed away June 12, 2007. Lillian was the Area Clerk at Macomb, IL at the time of her retirement. She was with SCS for 32 years. She is survived by her daughter, Linda Bonnett, a grandson, a granddaughter, and a great grandson. Memorial may go to the First Christian Church or the Everly House, Macomb, IL.
Milton H. Keller (78) passed away June 12, 2007. Milton was a draftsman with SCS in the Portland NTC. He is survived by his wife Anna; sons-Michael, Mark, and Matthew; daughter, Michelle; 10 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. Memorials may go to Kaiser Hospice.
Gladys Sykes Sutherland (87) passed away June 8, 2007. Mrs. Southerland was a native of Mebane, NC. She was secretary to the State Conservationist in Raleigh when she retired June 1, 1984, with 30 years of Service. She lived 41 years in Raleigh before moving to Greensboro to be near her grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Oswell P. “Duke” Southerland. She is survived by her son, Tom Southerland and wife, Joy, of Greensboro; two grandsons and three great Grandchildren.
Harold V. Stephens (84) passed away June 2, 2007. At the time of his retirement in 1982 Harold was the Acting State Resource Conservationist in Maryland. He started his career as a Soil Scientist and District Conservationist in Texas. He has been living with his daughter, Nan, in Tenn.
David DeTullio (58) passed away in Reno, NV on June 2, 2007. His death followed a brief illness. David served as Water Resource Policy Coordinator in the West Regional Office. He had also served as Assistant State Conservationist in Idaho. He is survived by his wife, Terry and son, Mike.
Honorary Senior Conservationist Frank C. Piper (92) passed away June 1, 2007. Frank retired Dec. 1974 as the District Conservationist at Baker City, OR. His wife, Virginia, passed away in 2001. In his retirement Frank was very active with volunteer work and travel. He is survived by daughter, Penny; daughter, Patti; and by 5 grandchildren.
Neal McKinstry (87) passed away recently (reported 6/07). Neal served as the District Conservationist at Craig, CO.
Greg Hoffmeister from Indiana passed away in the last year (reported 6/07).
Gene Hassler from Indiana passed away in the last year (reported 6/07).
Raymond Manchester from Indiana passed away in the last year (reported 6/07).
Ken Burns from Indiana passed away in the last year (reported 6/07).
Paul Hall from Indiana passed away in the last year (reported 6/07).
Wilbur “Babe” Kron. from Indiana passed away in the last year (reported 6/07).
Floyd W. Lopez (87) passed way May 29, 2007. Floyd was in the Many, LA Field Office at the time of his retirement.
Clemmon Windfield Bridgers Sr. (73) passed away May 25, 2007. Clemmon was a native of Northampton County, North Carolina, where he was a member of Jackson Baptist Church. He was married to Barbara Barrow in 1955. Mr. Bridgers retired in 1990 as a soil technician in Halifax County where he served for 38 years. He was a Master Mason, a member of Seaboard Lodge #378, AF&AM, and a member of the Scottish Rite as well as a Shriner. He is survived by his wife, Barbara; one son, Clemmon Windfield Bridgers, Jr. and his wife, Heidi, of Ahoskie; and one grandson, Lewis Clemmon Bridgers.
Clemmon W. Bridges (73) passed away May 25, 2007. Clemmon retired as a Soil Conservation Technician after 38 years in Halifax County, NC. He is survived by his wife, Barbara, one son, Clemmon and one grandson.
Lucy Pearson passed away May 16, 2007. Lucy retired after 28 years with the Cartographic Unit, Lincoln, NE. Her husband, Robert, was also an SCS employee. She is survived by Robert, daughter Eileen, 3 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.
Jerry Gockowski (81) passed away May 14, 2007. Jerry retired from the National Office as Director of Cartographic and Remote Sensing in Nov. 1980. Jerry started his career as an engineer in Minnesota. He later was in the Lincoln NTC with the Cartographic Unit. In his retirement he was active in his community and in his church. He and Marie were frequent attendees at ARSCSE Capitol Section luncheons. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Marie, six children-Carol Ann, James, Mary Lee, Thomas, Nancy, and Jean, and 12 grand children. Memorials may be made to St. Francis Catholic Church Building Fund, 22 W. High St., Gettysburg, PA 17325 or to Hospice of The Good Shepard, 1075 Old Harrisburg Rd., Gettysburg, PA 17325.
Senior Conservationist Pauline Sawyer (90) passed away May 11, 2007 in North Carolina. Pauline retired in January 1975 as an Executive Assistant with SCS in the National Office. She is survived by her son, William Sawyer and 4 grand children.
Steve Richard “Dick” Base passed away April 30, 2007. Dick retired in 1994 from the National Soil Survey Center as the correlator for the western United States. He is survived by his wife, Barbara, sons Daniel, Stephen, and Michael, step children Debra, Dana, Davis, Darin 21 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.
Steve Evanoika, NRCS retiree, passed away April 17, 2007. He worked for NRCS- in Simla, Castle Rock, and Kiowa. He was serving on the Elbert/Douglas COC, and was very involved in the conservation community. Steve will be sadly missed by all of us.
Gilbert Kagy passed away April 11, 2007. He was with SCS in Ohio. His wife, Martha, survives. Her address is 54 S. Washington St., Tiffin, OH 44883.
Frank Dugan (90) passed away April 2007. Frank retired from the Resource Staff in the Virginia State Office in December 1977. He was the State Biologist there for many years.
Senior Conservationist Walt Hankins passed away in April 2007. He was just named a Senior Conservationist this year. He resided in Boise, ID until recently when he moved to California to be near family. He retired in July 1980 as a Branch Chief in the Adm. Services Division.
Joe Perry passed away in April 2007. Joe retired as the Project Engineer at Grenada, MS. His wife, Virginia survives.
“Jake” Tootell passed away in early April 2007 at a nursing home in Missoula, MT. She was the wife of Don Tootell. Don Tootell retired as the Deputy State Conservationist in Washington. He had earlier served in Idaho and in the National Office. Don passed away a number of years ago.
Marion Shreve passed away March 28, 2007. Marion’s husband, Dixie retired as the State Resource Conservationist in West Virginia. She is survived by her husband, 2 daughters, and twelve grandchildren.
Willard E. Richter (84) passed away in Fredericksburg, Texas on March 27, 2007. He was a native of Boerne, Texas and a graduate of Texas A & M University with a degree in wildlife science in 1966. He had a career in the military, serving in U.S. Army Air Corps and flew P-47 Thurderbolts and served in the 371st Fighter Group in France, Belgium and Holland. He retired from the Air Force in 1963 to enter college. He worked as a Biologist in Texas in several locations including Navasota, Nacogdoches, Fredericksburg, Lubbock and San Angelo. He was highly respected in his field. He is survived by his wife, two sons, one daughter and two grandchildren.
Florence Ray died following an accident on March 22, 2007. Her husband, Merrill, was also in the accident. Their entire family some 65 in all attended the funeral with only 3 great grandchildren did not attend. Merrill retired as the Resource Conservationist in Missouri in June 1984.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Dr. Cornelius Van Doren (101) passed away March 16, 2007 at his home. He spent nearly his entire career as a research conservationist for USDA. Early in his career he worked at the Univ. of Illinois and with SCS. He retired from ARS 1974. His brother, Clifford is a Senior Conservationist. He is survived by his wife, Jean; sons Carlton, Dennis Gates, James Gates, 5 grand children and one great-granddaughter. Memorials may go to the Centennial Methodist Church, 1524 W County Rd C-2, Roseville, MN.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Steve Kortan (97) passed away March 16, 2007 at his home in Buda,TX. Steve retired as a Field Representative in the Portland NTC in March 1972. He started his career with SCS as an Engineer. Surviving are: his daughter, Karen Riker, son, James, 7 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren. Memorials may go to donor’s favorite charity.
Daniel “Dan” Yanta passed away March 10, 2007. Dan resided in Port Lavaca and was a retired District Conservationists in Texas. He was a graduate of Texas A & M University. He retired with 32 years of service and was working as a project manager for a contracting company. He is survived by his wife, Margaret and two daughters and several grandchildren.
Charles Ward (87) passed away March 10, 2007. Mr. Ward was a Soil Conservation Technician in Berryville when he retired in 1985.
Leroy Smith passed away March 6, 2007. Leroy moved to Yates Center, KS several years ago. His wife, Kathryn, survives.
Vera Long (96) passed away March 5, 2007. Her husband, Hampton Long, retired as the Area Conservationist in Macomb, IL. Hamp passed away many years ago. Vera moved to Golden, CO to be near their daughter, Juv. Juv’s address is: Juv Ann Fleming, 2039 Crestvue Cir., Golden, CO 80401-1769.
William J. Sauerwein (84) passed away March 5, 2007. Bill was a Forester for SCS for 36 years and retired from the Portland NTC. He is survived by his wife, Margaret; sons Mark and Brian, 6 grandchildren and one great grandchild. Margaret’s address is 5255 SW Dover Ct, Portland, OR 97225.
Harry Means passed away March 4, 2007. Harry retired in December 1998 as the State Conservation Engineer in Illinois. He earlier had served in that same position in Hawaii. He is survived by his son, Will and a daughter, Laine.
Ronald “Pat” Partenheimer (82) passed away March 2, 2007. Pat retired in Nov. 1980. He is remembered as the District Conservationist for Centre County, PA the home of Penn State University. He is survived by his wife, Ann, daughter, Susan and son, Raymond.
Andrew “Andy” Schroedl (97) passed away March 1, 2007. Andy was a Conservation Technician in the Bismarck, ND field office at the time of his retirement. His wife, Leone, died in July 2001. He is survived by his daughter, Jeanne; three sons, Paul, Michael, and Stephen and by 8 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.
Dorothy Smith died in late March 2007. Dorothy was the wife of Ray Smith. Ray retired as the State Conservation Engineer in Montana.
Robert Hopps passed away in March 2007. Bob worked in the Cartographic Print Shop, SCS Tech Center, Ft. Worth prior to his retirement. He is survived by his wife Lou, a daughter, and several grandchildren.
Charlotte Metz passed away Feb. 15, 2007 in Colby, KS. Her husband, Harvey retired as an Engineer in 1994 at Ft. Collins, CO.
Senior Conservationist Norris P. Swanson (90) passed away on Feb. 15, 2007. Norris was with SCS in the early days and then was transferred to ARS with the SCS research activity. Norris maintained a Membership in ARSCSE for many years. He is survived by his wife, Ruth, son, Joel, and two daughters, Jane Armstrong and Beth Weiskircher, 11 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. Memorials may go to Bethesda Lutheran Church, Clarinda, IA, 51632 or First Lutheran Church, Lincoln, NE 68506.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Albert Francis Bahr (92) passed away February 12, 2007. Albert worked as a Soil Scientist in North Dakota for 35 years and retired in 1973. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Louie Jean, 5 sons-Howard, Don, Lee, Stephen, and Lyman, daughter Linda, 63 grandchildren and 102 great grandchildren.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Richard C. Henderson (94) passed away recently (Feb 2007). Richard started his career with SCS in 1937. He worked in New Mexico and Colorado as Soil Conservationist and as a Soil Scientist. He retired in Apr. 1968. He is survived by his wife, Floy, and son Dave.
Robert E. Nelson (80) passed away February 9, 2007. Bob started his career with SCS in Nebraska. He later served as the Regional Soils Engineer in Broomall, PA, Portland, OR and at Lincoln, NE. He is survived by his wife, Joy, and their children-Barbara Sylvester, Kristine Davis, Bradley, Brenda Rendon, and Jeffrey. Also 13 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. Joy's address is: Joy Nelson 901 E Klug Ave, Norfolk, NE 68701
Donald Betts (89) passed away February 8, 2007. He was living at Coon Rapids. He had worked as a technician at the Atlantic and Audubon field offices. He is survived by his wife, Esther, and two children.
Irma Lewis (95) passed away February 4, 2007. Irma was the Head of Personnel at the SCS Technical Center in Ft. Worth prior to her retirement.
Grace Celotto passed away February 2, 2007. Grace was on the staff at the NENTC for many years.
Herman L. Mowls (88) died at his home on February 2, 2007. Herman retired from SCS in 1979 as a District Conservationist in Ohio. He is survived by 2 daughters-Linda Robertson and Sally Furey, and by 2 sons-Robert and Roy. Memorials may go, in Herman’s name, to Continue the Call Campaign, First Christian Church, 6900 Market Ave N, Canton, OH 44721.
William F. Neel (84) passed away in February 2007. Mr. Neel served 35 years on the Tazewell Soil and Water Conservation District Committee, 29 years as Chairman. He was very well known to the conservation community in Virginia. Mr. Neel’s sister Betsy, is married to Fred Sisk, an SCS retiree from the Indiana State Office.
David G. Sawyer, State Conservationist for Kentucky passed away on January 17, 2007. David had been fighting cancer for the past year. David started his career as a Soil Scientist in Tennessee. He also served in the National Office, and in Pennsylvania. He is survived by 2 sons, Joseph and John. Memorials may go to the National Kidney Foundation, 250 E Liberty St., Suite 710, Louisville, KY 40202.
Richard Coombe said "In the time that I knew David, I found him to be fiercely loyal to NRCS. He made this Agency his life and his dedication to conservation was admirable. He was a fine State Conservationist who did an outstanding job and was much appreciated by his staff. For many months David has been buoyed by the friendship, cards and prayers given to him by his NRCS family."
Charles Peterson of Winterset, Iowa passed away January 16, 2007. He retired as a soil conservation technician at Winterset in 2002.
Allen V. Sheppard (90), retired District Conservationist in Texas passed away on January 13, 2007 in Temple. Allen was a native of Wise County, Texas and graduated from Texas A&M in 1939. After 34 years he retired from the SCS and worked some 10 years for the State Soil and Water Conservation Board. Allen was a dedicated Soil Conservation Service employee.
Clyda Cott (88) passed away January 11, 2007. She had been in bad health for some time. Her husband, Hubbard “Hub” Cott retired from SCS in 1980 after a career that took him to Kansas, N. Dakota, S. Dakota, Iowa, 3 years in India and then back to Kansas. Hub died in 1984. Clyda is survived by 2 sons, Kenneth and Paul, a daughter, Su Piccioni, and seven grandchildren and 1 great grandchild. Memorials may go to the Stanton Co. Library, PO Box 480, Johnson, KS 67855.
John B. Tubb (92) passed away December 12, 2006. John was an engineer in the State Office in Louisiana at the time of his retirement in 1978. He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Ruth.
Donald F. Gusman (86) passed away December 6, 2006. Donald retired in 1985 as a Soil Conservation Technician at Caldwell, ID. He is survived by his wife, Twila, daughters, Deanna and Patricia, his son, Jim, 10 grandchildren and 19 great grand children.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Wallace Gillogly (96) passed away November 28, 2006. Wallace retired in Dec. 1980 as a Soil Conservationist in Darke County, Ohio. He earlier had spent 14 years as District Conservationist in Hocking County, Ohio. He is survived by a son, John, and daughters, Odessa Wilkey, Martha Lisznyei, Mary Lou Brimner and Ruth Ann Roach, 19 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren. Memorials may go to the Brethren Home, Greenville, OH.
William (Bill) E. Autry Jr. (77) passed away November 25, 2006 in Ephrata, Washington. Bill had worked as an engineer in Washington and Texas and retired at Paris, Texas in 1985, then moved back to Ephrata for retirement. His wife, Juanita, son Bill, and daughters Vicki and Diane survive him.
Senior Conservationist Hugh A. Divine (84) passed away November 22, 2006. Hugh retired in 1987 as a Conservation Technician in New York. He is survived by 2 sons, 2 daughters, 7 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.
Isreal Jones passed way November 15, 2006. He was a Technician in Cheneyville, LA at the time of his retirement in Jan. 1993.
Senior Conservationist Bernice E. Gehrt (87) passed away November 8, 2006. Bernice retired in April 1994 as the Secretary for the State Conservationist in Kansas. This ended a federal career of over 50 years. In addition to SCS she worked in OPA starting in 1942. Her SCS career started in 1947 as the Area Clerk in Ottawa, KS. She transferred to the State Office in 1995. She was recognized as having served the most years of any female in SCS.
Senior Conservationist Melvin M. Thompson (88) passed away November 6, 2006. Melvin retired as the Area Conservationist at Springfield, MO in May 1980. He earlier had served as Area Conservationist at Fulton, MO. He had a role in the establishment of several Soil and Water Conservation Districts in Missouri. He is survived by his wife, Lena, 2 children and 3 grandchildren.
Virginia D. Nelson passed away November 1, 2006. Virginia was the wife of Vern R. Nelson. They had been married 63 years. Vern retired in Dec. 1980 as an Area Conservationist in Washington.
Martha Proctor passed away October 30, 2006. She was a secretary on the engineering staff at the tech center in Fort Worth before her retirement. Everyone who knew her will remember her supreme talent at the piano and organ. She is survived by her husband and 3 children.
Joe Blevins (70) retired District Conservationist passed away in Lubbock, Texas on October 27, 2006. He was a native of Vernon, Texas, graduated from Brackenridge High School in San Antonio and received his degree from Texas A & I University in 1957. He retired in 1999. He is survived by his wife Shirley, a brother and a step son and daughter and five grandchildren.
Richard Rhea (76) passed away October 22, 2006. Before retiring, Richard served as District Conservationist in Abingdon, Virginia.
Robert Maehle (79) passed away October 22, 2006. Bob worked as a Conservation Technician in several districts in Illinois prior to his retirement in Dec. 1989. Bob is survived by his wife, Nancy; son, Mark; daughter, Lora; 3 step children; 2 grandchildren; and 5 step grandchildren. Condolences to Nancy may be sent to 902 Kratz Rd., Monticello, IL 61856.
Ron Ahlstrom passed away October 19, 2006. Ron was the Budget Analyst in the State Office in Kansas at the time of his retirement in Jan. 1994.
Alanson W. “Lance” Brown passed away October 17, 2006 after a long illness. Lance was a native of Pearsall, Texas. He was a graduate of Texas A & I University at Kingsville. He began working for the SCS in 1952 and worked in Belton, Taylor and finally served as Area Conservationist at Austin. He retired in 1980 and continued a career as a farmer and rancher. After retirement he served as a Director of the Taylor-Austin Soil and Water Conservation District. He was preceded in death by his wife Ruth in 1994. He is survived by his wife, Jane and four sons and seven grandchildren.
Jerry L. Scrivner (74) passed away October 17, 2006. Jerry had worked in the states of Missouri, Nebraska, Hawaii, and Washington. Jerry retired in Jan. 1987 as the State Administrative Officer in Spokane, Washington. Jerry had been fighting cancer since early summer. He is survived by his wife Cori, sons Skip and Randy, and daughter Melissa.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Paul E Jacobson (96) passed away October 15, 2006. Paul spent 30 years with SCS. After serving as a Zone Conservation Engineer in the Milwaukee, WI Regional Office he moved to Iowa as State Conservation Engineer in 1951. He served in that position until his retirement in 1964. Following his leaving SCS he worked for Harza Engineering for 15 years. This position took him to conservation projects around the world. As State Conservation Engineer he developed and promoted the concept of tile outlet terraces and grassed backfill terraces. The many thousands of miles of terraces in western Iowa are a testament to Paul’s dedication and drive. He is survived by his son, Paul, and 3 daughters, Lorraine, Mary and Lusijah. Memorials may go to the Iowa State University Foundation or the Sandpoint, ID United Methodist Church.
Gerlene ‘Gerri’ Inman passed away October 10, 2006 in Fort Washington, MD. She retired from the NNTC.
Dale Gingrich (82) passed away October 9, 2006. Dale worked as a Conservation Technician in Perry, Dauphin and Mifflin Counties in Pennsylvania. After retirement he served as County Commissioner for Juniata County. During his career he was also a dairy farmer and a conservation district director. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Ruth, and five daughters. Memorials may go to the Dale Gingrich Horticultural Conservation Fund, c/o Juniata County Conservation District, RR #5 Box 35, Stony Creek Rd, Mifflintown, PA 17069.
James A. “Jim” DeMent, PhD., passed away October 8, 2006 in Bossier City, Louisiana. Jim was 85 years of age and a retired Soil Scientist. He was a native of Louisiana and a graduate of Louisiana State University. He received his MS and PhD from Cornell University in agronomy and soils. Jim worked as a field soil scientist in Louisiana and after completing his PhD he worked in the National Soil Survey Laboratory in Lincoln. He spent several years on the staff of the Principal Soil Correlator’s office in Ft. Worth. Jim was a true scientist and the author of numerous scientific articles. After his retirement from the SCS, he spent several years in the consulting business, primarily in the area of surface mine reclamation. He was married for 63 years to Ruby Weaver DeMent and she preceeded him in death. He is survived by two sons, James A DeMent, Jr. of Houston and David DeMent of Gonzalez, and five grandchildren.
Senior Conservationist James W. Bean (85) passed away recently (Oct 06). Jim retired from the Watershed Planning Division in the National Office in Feb. 1976. His wife, Myrtie, survives as well as 4 sons, William, Gary, Robert, and Andrew, 2 daughters, Cynthia, Donna, and Marcia, and 15 grandchildren. Memorials may be sent to Center United Methodist Church, c/o Ruth Knepper, 862 Drifting Lane, Hustontown, PA 17229. Condolences can be sent to Myrtie Bean, 3625 Brook St., Greencastle, PA 17225.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist James S. White (93) passed away October 6, 2006. James retired in July 1970 as a District Conservationist in Georgia.
Past President and Senior Conservationist J. Vernon Martin (88) passed away October 6, 2006. “Swede” was in a nursing home for several years and suffered from Alzheimer’s. His wife, Judy, is also in the nursing home. He retired from SCS in 1979 as Director, SNTC and Assistant Chief. Earlier he was State Conservationist in Missouri. He started his career and served in many positions in Oklahoma. He was an avid OK State University alumnus. He served as ARSCSE president 1993-1994 and was a strong leader during his term. Earlier he served as the President for SWCS. Swede enjoyed life and he was known for his sense of humor. He is survived by his wife, Judy, son, Vernon and daughter, Judy, 5 grandchildren and 10 great grand children. Memorials may go to Oklahoma State University Foundation, SWCS, or to the Judith Karmen Hospice, Stillwater, OK. Click here to send a condolence.
Bill Reece, retired District Conservationist at Lubbock passed away recently (Sept 2006). Bill was 87 years of age. He served in the USAF during WW II as a crew chief on a C47 plane. He was a graduate of Texas Tech and was DC in Lubbock for some 25 years. After his retirement from the SCS he worked for the State Soil and Water Conservation Board as a District Representative. He was a loyal supporter of the Texas Tech Red Raiders. He was married to Wanza Mankins on July 4, 1948 and they have one son and a daughter and three grandchildren and one great grand child. Bill was a highly respected employee of the SCS.
Donald L. Dodd (66) passed away September 22, 2006. Donald retired in April 1994 after a career with SCS in West Virginia. He was a Project Engineer, State Construction Engineer, and Contracting Officer at various times during his time with SCS. He graduated from West Virignia University, and served in the U. S. Army as a 2nd Lieutenant. Don was the "go to" guy when there were serious problems on watershed and other projects. He was a very special person and will be missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his wife, Elaine, 2 daughters, 10 grandchildren, and a great grandchild.
Leroy Harnish (86) passed away September 19, 2006. Leroy served with SCS for 35 years, most of that time as an engineer at Kittaning, FL.
Senior Conservationist Sam G. Dunaway (87) passed away September 18, 2006. Sam retired from SCS in Oct. 1987 after 36 years. He served as District Conservationist and as RC&D Coordinator. Sam is survived by his wife, Ruth, three children, 2 grandchildren, and 2 great grandchildren.
Christopher Moustakis (82) passed away September 15, 2006. Chris retired in Jan. 1985 as the State Resource Conservationist in MA. After retiring he served for many years as the ARSCSE Representative for MA. He is survived by 2 daughters, Jo Ann and Christine, and 3 grandchildren.
Senior Conservationist Charles Holden (86) passed away September 15, 2006. Charles retired as Conservation Agronomist for the New England states in Dec. 1979. After retiring he moved to Columbia, SC. His wife, Peg, died several years ago. He is survived by 4 children, their spouses, and 9 grandchildren. Condolences may be sent to his daughter Jane Richardson, 507 Topknoll Ct., Columbia, SC 29212-phone 803-732-5707.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Glenn E. Stucky (93) passed away September 13, 2006. Glenn retired in July 1975 as the Irrigation Engineer in the Upper Darby NTC. During his career he served in numerous locations including the Lincoln NTC. Glenn’s energy and enthusiasm for his work and for his fellow man made him a leader and a respected co-worker. He is survived by his wife, Ann, their 8 children, 12 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. Memorials may go to the WWAMI Medical Program, WWAMI Medical Education Program, Montana State University, 310 Leon Johnson Hall, PO Box 173080, Bozeman, MT 59717.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Sam R. Bacon (106) passed away September 9, 2006. The oldest of our Senior Conservationists Mr. Bacon was a Soil Scientist in Tennessee at the time of his retirement in Nov. 1963. He earned the attention of many not only for his longevity but also for his continued activity. He was delivering Meals-on-Wheels to people half his age after he had attained the age of 100.
Bedford Jackson passed away September 9, 2006. Bedford retired in Tennessee after a career as a Soil Scientist.
Senior Conservationist Kenneth M. Larson (93) passed away September 6, 2006 in Williston, ND. Ken retired as a District Conservationist in July 1975. He worked for SCS 30 years in Dickey County, ND. He is survived by a son and daughter, 8 grandchildren, and 12 great grandchildren.
Rosella “Rose” Zimmerman (74) passed away September 5, 2006 in Bismarck, ND. Rose was the wife of Norm Zimmerman who retired from SCS as a Civil Engineering Technician for many years from the Dickinson Area Office. She is survived by her husband, Norm, two sons and two grandchildren.
Mary Davis (76) passed away September 3, 2006. Mary was an administrative aide in the National Office at the time of her retirement in 1984. She also worked in the Department for some time. She is survived by her husband Preston Davis, 2 children from her first marriage, 4 stepchildren, 13 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.
Daniel M. Windley (81) passed away September 3, 2006. Dan was a Conservation Technician at the Washington, NC Field Office for 32 years. He is survived by his wife, Ann, three daughters, three sons, 13 grandchildren, and several great grandchildren.
Allan D. May (76) passed away August 30, 2006. Allan retired as a District Conservationist in Will/Cook Counties in Illinois in October 1985. He is survived by his son, Steven, daughters, Carol, Jeanne, and Janet, and 9 grandchildren. Memorials may go to the Gerber Hart Library, 1127 W. Granville, Chicago, IL 60660. Those wishing to send condolences may send them to Steven May, 3056 Rosemont Dr., Joliet, IL 60435.
John Howard Goin, Sr., (86) passed away August 28, 2006. Before his retirement, John was a technician at the Appomattox Field Office.
Senior Conservationist Grant Kennedy (89) passed away August 23, 2006. Grant spent his career in SCS as a Soil Scientist. He retired in May 1975. Most of his mapping experience was in California but he also mapped in Nevada and Georgia after starting with SCS at Ft. Worth Texas.
Dorothy Davis passed away August 22, 2006 after a long illness. Dorothy was the widow of Senior Conservationist Leonard W. Davis who died on March 4, 2006. Leonard retired as a District Conservationist in June 1978. Dorothy is survived by her sons, Wayne and Ken, and daughters, Connie, Joyce, Donna, and Karen, and 10 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. Memorials may go to the Christ Community Church, 450 W. Jackson St., Cookeville, TN 38601.
Phyllis Baum (79) passed away August 21, 2006. Phyllis was the wife of Bob Baum. Bob a retired SWCS employee and has been an Associate Member of ARSCSE for many years. She is survived by her husband, 4 daughters, six grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Memorials may go to Salem YMCA, 685 Court NE, Salem, OR 97301 or Willamette Valley Hospice, 1015 3rd St. N.W., Salem, OR 97304.
Shirley Hughes (86) passed away August 21, 2006. Shirley was the wife of Senior Conservationist Howard Hughes. Howard retired as Assistant State Conservationist in Iowa in Dec. 1979.
George Ensminger (72) pased away August 17, 2006. George retired as an Area Engineer in OK.
Senior Conservationist Ray R. Huxtable (85) passed away August 13, 2006. Ray retired in May 1976 as the Assistant State Conservationist for Water Resources in Nevada. His wife, Vi, survives.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Mark B. Huntley (99) passed away August 11, 2006. Mark started his career with SCS in 1955 in Centerville, IA. He retired as the District Conservationist at Garner, IA in June 1973 after having worked in several other locations in IA. He moved to Arvada, CO in 1973 where he lived at the time of his death. Survivors include his daughter, Dorothy Wells, 2 granddaughters, 4 great granddaughters, and 2 great great granddaughters.Word of his passing came from his daughter, Dorothy Wells, 10737 W 68th Place, Arvada, CO 80004.
Robert N. Cheetham (85) pased away August 11, 2006. Bob was the State Geologist in Wisconsin at the time of his retirement from SCS. He is survived by his wife Evonna Marie.
Richard Riemenschneider (93) passed away August 5, 2006. Richard spent his entire career in the Zanesville, OH area as a Conservation Technician. Memorials may go to the American Caner Society or the Miltonsburg Cemetery Association, 36110 Baltimore Rd., Woodsfield, OH 43793.
Lillian Qualls passed away August 4, 2006. Lillian was the wife of Bill Qualls. Bill retired several years ago as District Conservationist at Iola, KS. His address is 812 North, Iola, KS 66749.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist William H. Matthews (100) is reported to have died (Aug 06). Bill worked in Iowa for many years as a Conservation Technician. He retired in June 1972.
Clint Russell (76) passed away July 8, 2006. Clint retired in December 1989 as the Economist at the Midwest RTC. Earlier he worked in Texas, Arkansas, Illinois, and Oregon. Clint had been fighting cancer for sometime. He is survived by his wife Shirley. Memorials may be made to the Oaklawn United Methodist Church, Hot Springs, AR.
Eva P. Van Dersal (91) passed away July 5, 2006. Eva was the wife of Dr. William R. Van Dersal. William retired from SCS as Assistant Administrator for Management. He passed away in 1990. Eva, or as she was better known, Dr. Eva Gaines Van Dersal spent over 4 decades as a nurse, teacher, counselor and college professor.
Lou Starr passed away July 3, 2006. Lou was the wife of Claude Starr. Claude was in the National Office at the time of his retirement. Claude passed away some time ago.
Beatrice Kmetz (80) passed away July 1, 2006. Beatrice was the wife of Andy Kmetz. Andy, who died a number of years ago, was the Personnel Officer for Illinois at the time of his retirement in July 1978. Andy was a historian for the CCC’s in Illinois. Andy died in 1995. Andy and Beatrice were recognized at an Illinois football game several years ago as having all of their children graduate from the University. She is survived by 2 sons-Andy and Bob, 4 daughters-Anne Marie, Janis, Joni, and Jennifer. Memorials may go to St. Matthew Catholic Church, 1303 Lincolnshire Dr., Champaign, IL 61821.
Senior Conservationist Keith F. Meyers (87) passed away June 29, 2006. Keith retired as Midwest NTC Director. Keith also served as State Conservationist in Kentucky and Nebraska. His career started with the CCC’s. He is survived by his wife, Margaret, sons William, Robert, and Gary, 7 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.
Harold T. Brown (82) passed away June 29, 2006. Harold retired as an Assistant State Conservationist. His early career service was as an Engineer. He is survived by his wife, Charlene.
Donald Bannister (86) passed away June 29, 2006. His career spanned 30 years and he served in several locations in ND. His final position was as the State Soil Scientist. He retired in 1976. His wife Thelma died in 1986.
Tommy Slaughter (89) passed away June 28, 2006 in Marshall, Texas. Tommy served some 38 years as a technician with the Soil Conservation Service in the East Texas area. Tommy served in the Army during World War II and earned many medals and awards. He also received several awards from the USDA Soil Conservation Service. He was faithful in attending the annual SCS/NRCS Reunion. He was preceded in death by his wife, Lucille in 1992.
Dorothy “Dottie” Haynes passed away June 28, 2006. She was the wife of Senior Conservationist Tom Hayes. Tom retired as District Conservationist at Eaton, OH in Aug. 1973.
Noel R. Asp (77) passed away June 23, 2006 at Fargo, ND. He worked at Milaca, MN; Fargo, ND and Finley, ND retiring in 1989. He is survived by his wife, Norma Asp, Mayville, ND; a son and 3 grandchildren.
Helmer “Andy” Anderson (99) passed away June 22, 2006. Andy began his career with the Forest Service as a supervisor in a CCC camp. He started with SCS in 1950 as a Soil Conservationist in Chippewa County, WI. He was preceded in death by his wife, Helen, and daughter, Jeanne Tyner. He is survived by his son Bruce and grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Senior Conservationist Leonard Watts (96) passed away in June 2006. Leonard worked as a Conservation Technician in Southern Ohio at the time of his retirement in September 1983.
Jim Wade passed away (June 06). Jim was a geologist on the Watershed Planning Staff in Ohio when he was with SCS.
Harry N. Young passed away June 18, 2006. Harry retired in 1982 after having worked in the SCS office in Defiance, OH for 12 years.
Mary Jo Hytry passed away June 14, 2006 after having cardiac arrest the day before. Mary Jo was the wife of Jerry Hytry. Jerry has served as Historian for ARSCSE for a number of years. He retired in Jan. 1988 as an Associate Deputy Chief. Jerry and Mary Jo moved from Northern Virginia within the past year to Orlando, Florida to be near their oldest son. Jerry and their children, Tom, Mary Lynn, Steve and Susan survive. The family asked suggests that memorials may go to Blue Ridge Hospice, 333 West Cork Street, Winchester, VA 22601. Jerry volunteered at Blue Ridge for several years while they lived near Winchester.
Judie Duesterhaus (64) passed away at her home on June 7, 2006. Judie was the wife of ARSCSE President Rich Duesterhaus. Rich retired from NRCS in Jan. 1997 as Deputy Chief. Judie is survived by Rich, 2 daughters-Kathy and Lynn, 6 sons-Steve, Mike, Dan, Alan, Tom and Greg, and 14 grandchildren. Memorials may go to So Others Might Eat, 71 O St. NW, Washington, DC 2001 or to Capitol Hospice, Development Office, 6565 Arlington Blvd., #501, Falls Church, VA 22042.
Robert Smith passed away May 31, 2006. Robert was a Soil Scientist in Pennsylvania through out his career with SCS.
Ed P. Cook (68) passed away May 30, 2006. Ed started his engineering career with SCS in Illinois. He served as a Planning Engineer for a number of years prior to accepting a position in the National Office in the River Basin Division. He later transferred to the Nevada State Office. His wife, Mary J., survives. Also surviving are children and grand children. The family asked suggests that memorials may go to Habitat for Humanity. Cards may go to the family at 2119 Leisure World, Mesa, AZ 85206.
Marla Lee Claassen (53) passed away May 30, 2006. Marla was a Contract Specialist with SCS/NRCS. She worked in Idaho, New Mexico, National Office, Kentucky and back to Idaho. She started her career as the Secretary for the Idaho Engineering Office. She fought a long battle with cancer. She was a friend, a dedicated person and a joy to be around. She is survived by her 2 brothers and a sister. The family suggests that memorials go to the Mountain States Tumor Institute, 100 E. Idaho, Boise, Idaho 83712.
Paul I. Nelson passed away recently (May 2006). Paul worked for SCS/NRCS for 33 years. His last position was as District Conservationist at Kingfisher, OK. Cards of condolences may go to Jackie Nelson, 11050 Whitehouse Rd., Guthrie, OK 73044.
Senior Conservationist Wilma Lungstrum (85) passed away May 23, 2006. Wilma was the secretary for the California Engineering Staff and later for the State Conservationist. She retired in May 1961. She was an especially dedicated secretary and cared about all those she worked with. She served as the ARSCSE representative for many years. Memorials may go to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, 1329 Howe Ave., Sacramento, CA 95825.
Joseph G. Miller (75) passed away in San Antonio on May 15, 2006 after a sudden illness. Joe worked in several locations in Texas, retiring as Area Engineer at Uvalde. He was a 1952 graduate of Texas A & M University. He is survived by his wife, Joan S. Miller, two sons and two daughters and seven grandchildren. Joe was a faithful supporter of the Texas SCS/NRCS reunion and he was present at the last meeting in April.
Senior Conservationist Jacob A. Stewart (88) passed away May 15, 2006. Jake began his career in the Soil Erosion Service. He retired in June 1970 as an Engineering Technician at Statesville, NC.
John B. (J.B.) Carter passed away May 14, 2006. Mr. Carter was 83 and living in Orange, Virginia, at the time of his death. Mr. Carter retired as a Soil Scientist in Virginia.
Maureen Jurgens (73) passed away April 28, 2006. Maureen was the wife of Leonard Jurgens who retired as the State Range Conservationist for CO in April 1994. Leonard survives.
Helen Brasfield passed away April 23, 2006. Helen was the wife of James Brasfield who retired as Soil Correlator in TN in Dec. 1986.
Camilla "Bonnie" Spivey, former NRCS Budget Analyst for Delaware, passed away April 9, 2006 from a heart attack. Bonnie retired in June 2002 with over 26 years of federal service, serving in financial management in both Maryland and Delaware.
Clifton A. Maguire (75) passed away April 4, 2006. Cliff retired in Dec. 1988 as the State Conservationist in Wisconsin. Cliff started his career as an engineer in Iowa. His wife, Connie, survives as does his son, David, 3 stepchildren, 18 grandchildren, and 4 great grandchildren. Memorials may go to HospiceCare Inc., 5395 E. Cheryl Parkway, Madison, WI 53716.
George Brown (92) passed away April 1, 2006. George was the District Conservationist in Allegany County, NY at the time of his retirement in 1974.
Gary Berg (66) pased away March 30, 2006. Gary retired in April of 1994 as a Soil Conservation Technician in MN.
Phyllis Fenton passed away March 30, 2006. Phyllis was the wife of Senior Conservationist Earl Fenton. Earl retired in Feb. 1975 as Director of the Resource Conservation and Development Division in the National Office. She is survived by Earl, son Larry, daughter Jean, 3 grandchildren, and 5 great grandchildren.
Francis E. Holloman (87) passed away March 29, 2006. Francis spent his career as a Conservation Technician in Hertford County, NC. He is survived by his daughters, Pat and Betty, and 4 grandchildren.
Claude Dillon (89) passed away March 28, 2006. Claude retired as State Range Conservationist in Washington. He is survived by his wife Zena, two sons, Bill and Tom and two daughters, Claudia and Karen.
Betty Renfrow (73) passed away March 27, 2006. Betty was the wife of Rex Renfro. Rex who was in the B&F Section, National Office, left SCS in the mid 70’s to go into private business. She is survived by Rex and 7 grand children. She was preceded in death by their daughter and son. Memorials may go to the First Baptist Church of Springfield, 7330 Gary St., Springfield, VA 22150. Rex’s address is 10715 Shadow Ln., Fairfax Station, VA 22039-22425.
Robert E. Hartung (79) passed away March 26, 2006. Bob retired as the National Forester in Jan. 1984. He is survived by his sons, Doug and Gary, life partner Sue Barber, five grandchildren, and 3 great grandchildren. Memorials may go to the Redmond Free Methodist Church.
Ron Richardson, former District Conservationist in Woodstock, and Soil Conservationist in Verona, VA, passed away in March 2006. Ron had 25 years of service with SCS/NRCS.
Senior Conservationist William J. Lloyd (89) passed away March 26, 2003. Bill retired as Chief Forester, SCS, in December 1979. Bill had served at some time in his career in every Region for SCS. Bill was always involved in Barber Shop Quartettes where ever he lived. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Lucille, and their 3 sons, Harold, Ron, and Mike and 12 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren.
Senior Conservationist Ralph Johnson (85) passed away March 24, 2006. Ralph was a Conservation Technician and spent his entire career with SCS in his home county, Sampson County, NC.
Lois J. McClaskey (75) of Salina, KS passed away March 20, 2006. Lois was the wife of Dale McClaskey. Dale retired in December 1986 as the Asst. State Conservationist in Kansas. Dale was the ARSCSE Representative for Kansas for a number of years. Dale survives with their 2 daughters, a son, thirteen grandchildren and one great grandchild. Memorials may go to the First Methodist Church Building Fund.
Senior Conservationist Andrew J. Andresen (98) passed away March 19, 2006. Andrew retired in Sept. 1975 as an Area Conservationist in California. His wife of 63 years, Bonnalyn, passed away some time ago.
Billy Casteel (79) passed away in March 2006. Billy retired in Nov. 1990 as a District Conservationist in Texas.
Senior Conservationist Charles E. Paige (87) passed away March 16, 2006. Charles retired in April 1982 as a District Conservationist in Missouri. He is survived by his wife, Rosenmae, 2 sons, a daughter, and 3 grandchildren.
C. Warren Curtis (79) passed away March 13, 2006. Warren retired as the State Soil Scientist in AZ in 1982. He is survived by his wife, Frances. Her address is 2625 Southern Ave., C-60, Tempe, AZ 85282.
James Murphy (54) passed away March 12, 2006. James began his career with SCS/NRCS as a member of the watershed survey crew and later became an inspector on watershed projects. He is survived by his wife, Dianne, a daughter, a son, and a stepdaughter.
Vernon A. Wortman (73) passed away March 9, 2006. He was born March 20, 1932, and grew up on a farm near Walthill, NE. He attended Wayne State College and graduated from the University of Nebraska. He worked for the Soil Conservation Service from 1959 until his retirement in 1987. Survivors include his wife, Betty, two sons, Mike and Curt, and a daughter, Denise.
Walter B. Deacon (87) passed away March 6, 2006. Walter retired as a Conservation Technician with SCS. He is survived by his wife, Mildred, a son, Stephen, 5 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Memorials may go to Alzheimer’s Association of Central Ohio, 3380 Tremont Rd., Columbus, OH 43221.
Senior Conservationist Leonard W. Davis (86) passed away March 4, 2006. Leonard retired in June 1978 as a District Conservationist in Tennessee. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Dorothy, sons Wayne and Ken, daughters Connie, Joyce, Donna, and Karen, 10 grand children and 10 great grandchildren. Memorials may go to the Christ Community Church, 450 W. Jackson St. Cookeville, TN 38501.
Keith O. Roble (54) passed away unexpectedly March 4, 2006. Keith was an Engineer with NRCS at Presque Isle, ME at the time of his death. He is survived by his wife, Nancy, and son, Niklas. Memorials may go to Covenant Church, New Sweden, ME or to Conservation Education Memorial, Central Aroostook Soil and Water Conservation District, 735 Main St., Suite 3, Presque Isle, ME 04769.
Bettyjoe Pendelton passed away recently (Mar 2006). Bettyjoe was the wife of Don Pendleton. Don retired as the National Range Conservationist in 1986.
Senior Conservationist Luna B. Leopold (90) passed away from congestive heart failure on February 23, 2006. Dr. Leopold started his career with SCS in 1936 following his graduation from the University of Wisconsin. He spent time on the Coon Valley Project in Wisconsin. After World War II he started on a long career as hydrologist and meteorologist. He was the chief hydrologist for U. S. Geological Service. He edited his father’s book, A Sand County Almanac, following his father’s death. As the son of Aldo Leopold he more than carried on the family’s reputation as environmentalists and scientists.
Senior Conservationist Edgar B. Russell (90) passed away February 22, 2006. He was born in Somerset, Kentucky, and a graduate of the University of Kentucky. He is survived by a son, two daughters, and grand children. Memorials may go to the Leukemia Society of America, Inc., Kentucky Chapter 710, W Main St., Suite #20, Louisville, KY 40202.
Senior Conservationist Kenneth C. Burns (91) passed away February 20, 2006. Ken retired in June 1973 as a District Conservationist in Indiana. His wife, Joan, survives.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Hal Enderlin (95) passed away February 20, 2006. Hal retired in May 1972 as Assistant Director, Engineering Division, in the National Office of SCS. Prior to coming to Washington he had served as the State Conservation Engineer in California. After retirement they moved to Central Nevada. He is survived by his wife, Lorraine, sons, Jay and William, 2 granddaughters and 4 great grandchildren.
Joseph A. Krivak (79) passed away February 20, 2006. Joe became ill on an ice fishing trip. Joe was in Watershed Planning in PA and later worked for the Dept. of Interior and EPA prior to retiring in 1982. He is survived by his wife, Rita, daughter, Debra Meyer, son, John, and 3 grandchildren.
Senior Conservationist Carlton Schroeder passed away recently (Feb 2006). He retired as a Conservation Technician in New Jersey.
Robert Shaw (66) passed away February 13, 2006. Bob had been fighting lung cancer. Bob served for several years as the Florida Representative for ARSCSE. He retired in Jan. 1996 as the Director, Engineering Division. He was also the Deputy for Technology. He began his career in Maine and was involved in Watershed Planning. He also served as State Conservationist in Vermont and Ohio. He is survived by his wife, Evelyn, son, Scott, daughter, Elizabeth and a grandson. Memorials may go to American Cancer Society.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Jesse J. Murrell (93) passed away February 5, 2006. Jesse retired in 1973 after 39 years as a District Conservationist. He was a charter Member of SWCS. He is survived by his wife, Marie, sons Lynn and Max and daughter Judy, seven grandchildren and five great grandchildren.
Robert Baum (74) passed away February 3, 2006. Bob retired in 1991 as the State Range Conservationist in Idaho in 1991. After retiring he returned to his home town of Tecumseh, NE where he was an active Earth Team volunteer. He is survived by a son, Greg, a daughter, Sonja, and a grandson. Memorials may be sent to the family’s choice, in care of Glen Baum, 61556 722 Rd, Tecumseh, NE 68450-8426.
Bill Payne passed away February 1, 2006. Bill retired as Assistant State Conservationist-Watershed in California. He is survived by his wife, Audrey, 2 sons a daughter and several grandchildren. Audrey’s address is Space #128, 215 N Power Rd., Mesa, AZ 85295.
William H. Corley (82) passed away February 1, 2006. William retired as an Engineering Technician in VT in 1984. He is survived by his wife, Ruth, two daughters, one son, and their families.
Henrietta Davis (Forrester) (90) passed away suddenly January 27, 2006. Retta was the WNTC Director’s Secretary. She retired in 1981.
Bettyjoe R. Pendleton, wife of retired National Range Conservationist Don Pendleton passed away January 25, 2006. Services were held at the St. Paul Methodist Church in Breckenridge, Texas. Don’s address is Post Office Box 86, Caddo, Texas 76429.
Senior Conservationist William McGauhey (85) passed away January 25, 2006. He retired Feb. 1978 as a Resource Conservationist in the National Office. Bill returned to his home state of Kentucky after his retirement and sold real estate and managed the family farm. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Grace, a son, 2 daughters, 9 grandchildren, and 13 great grandchildren. Memorials may go to Hospice of the Bluegrass, 2312 Alexandria Dr., Lexington, KY 40504 or the American Heart Association, 240 Whittington Parkway, Louisville, KY 40222.
Richard P. “Dick” Williams (91) passed away January 17, 2006 in Fargo, ND. He worked for the CCC and Forest Service in MT before his 37 year SCS career in Steele and Linton, ND. After retirement he returned to college and became the oldest student at that time to receive a Ph.D. from NDSU (64 years old). He is survived by Rachel, his wife of 65 years, 4 children, 6 grandchildren, and 5 great grandchildren.
George Kalkanis passed away January 16, 2006. His death came after a fall that resulted in serious injury and then pneumonia. George retired from the Engineering Design and Technical Unit, Engineering Division. George was recognized as one of the most brilliant engineers in SCS. He had his PhD in engineering with studies under Dr. Hans Einstein. He was on the state staff in California prior to joining the Engineering Division. He is survived by his wife, Nancy. Her address is - 1350 California St., Berkeley, CA 94703.
Terry G. Fairbanks (69) passed away January 16, 2006 following a sudden heart attack. Terry spent his entire SCS career as an Engineer in West Virginia. He was also an ordained minister in the American Baptist Church. While attending the University of West Virginia he was captain of the football team. He retired in Jan. 1991. His wife, Judy, 5 sons, a daughter, 15 grandchildren and one great granddaughter survive.
Claudia Chapman Worley (59) passed away in January 2006. Claudia will be remembered by many as the daughter of the late Cecil Chapman, long time State Conservationist in GA. Her death resulted from complications following kidney removal surgery on Jan. 13, 2006. She is survived by three children, three sisters, and her husband of 35 years, Davis Taylor Worley. Davis is the son of the late L.D. “Red” Worley originally from MS but remembered by Georgians as State Conservation Engineer for SCS in GA.
James W. Lodwick (87), retired District Conservationist at Greenville, Texas passed away January 9, 2006. Jimmy served in several locations in Texas during his 35 years with the SCS. He was a native of Tyron, OK and he graduated from Oklahoma A&M in 1941. He was preceded in death by his wife Bettijo. He is survived by two sons, Jim and John, a sister, a grand daughter and a great granddaughter.
Charlie Thompson recalls "Jim was his first supervisor when he was the Work Unit Conservationist at Seguin, Texas. He was an excellent trainer, an innovator, and his standards for performance were very high."
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Mel Carlson (92) passed away January 8, 2006. Mel retired in June 1974 as the State Forester for Idaho. He started his career in the CCC’s at a camp near Salmon, ID. He is survived by his wife, Zilda, daughter Janice Walters and 2 stepdaughters. Memorials may go to the Idaho Conservation League, 710 N 6th St., Boise, ID 8370.
Margaret E. Stone, widow of George Stone, retired State Conservationist of California passed away in Nacogdoches, Texas on January 6, 2002. She is survived by daughter, Susan Buchanan, two granddaughters, one grandson and a great-granddaughter. George preceded her in death on December 6, 2004.
Carl F. Eby, retired (1986) New Jersey State Soils Scientist passed away January 4, 2006 of a heart attack.
Gilbert A. Bowman (76) passed away December 30, 2005. Gib started his soil mapping career with SCS in Nebraska. He transferred to Colorado in 1978 as the State Soil Correlator. His wife, Ethel, 3 children-Paula, Tim and Jon, and 6 grandchildren survive him.
John W. Young (80) passed away December 29, 2005. “Big John” retired in 1983 as a Resource Conservationist in New York. He is survived by his wife Alberta, sons Ronald and John, 6 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. Memorials may go to the SGA Junior Golf Assn., c/o Moses Clark, 709 Hazelwood Ave., Syracuse, NY 13224.
Gene Shaw (89) passed away December 24, 2005 in Olympia, Washington. Gene was the State Agronomist in Spokane in the middle 1970’s. Gene had worked in the southern part of India at the same time that Robbie Roberts, Guy Nutt, Murray Cox, and Gene Pope were on assignment in India. Gene is survived by his wife, Laverne.
Mary Claire Thomas, wife of Carl Thomas, retired Chief Biologist on the National Staff passed away December 19, 2005 at the age of 74. Carl can be reached at 31421 Wild Oak Hill, Fair Oaks Ranch, Texas 78015.
Honorary Member and senior conservationist Hobart S. Sockman (94) passed away December 17, 2005. Hobart retired from the Conservation Planning Division in the National Office in Jan. 1977. They retired back to Ohio for many years and just recently moved to Greenwood, SC. He is predeceased by his wife of 64 years, Helen. Memorials may go to the Gay Street United Methodist Church, 18 N. Gay St., Mt. Vernon, OH 43050.
Robert Ditson (74) passed away December 13, 2005. Bob was born in Oakland, Maine on August 6, 1931. As a boy, Bob spent summers on Lake Mooselookmeguntic, where his mother was a cook at Bald Mountain camps. The Rangeley lakes were a place that he loved, and would return to visit throughout his life.
He graduated from Williams High School in Oakland, in 1949. During his youth he earned the distinction of becoming an Eagle Scout. He went on to college at the University of New Hampshire, where he majored in business, agriculture, and engineering.
Bob started his career with SCS in the summer of 1956. He worked in various capacities until 1986, serving first in upstate New York, and then in Michigan as the State Resource Conservationist. He finished his Soil Conservation Service career in 1986 as Liaison to the Federal Extension Service in Washington, D.C., the first person to hold that position. After retiring from government service, Mr. Ditson relocated to Kennebunkport, Maine. He is survived by his wife, Joan.
Jerry J. Waller, retired Conservation Agronomist passed away December 12, 2005 at the age of 73 years. Jerry was a native of Paris, Texas. He received his BS degree from East Texas State University, and his MS degree from Texas A & M University. He also earned a MS from Montana State University. Jerry worked in several locations in Texas including the State Office, and worked in Montana for a period of time. He retired in 1987 with 34 years of service with the SCS. Jerry is survived by his wife, Sue, three sons and one daughter and 11 grandchildren.
Senior Conservationist Harold Turell (86) passed away December 9, 2005. Harold retired as a Technician in Northwest Missouri in July 1982. Harold was noted for his surveying and map-making capabilities. He worked out of the Bethany, MO Area Office and had worked in that part of the state since 1948.
Senior Conservationist Alvin (Buck) Clements (87) passed away at his home on December 7, 2005. He retired from SCS in July 1975 as Assistant State Conservationist in OK. His wife, Irene, survives.
Mary Geiger passed away December 3, 2005. Mary was the wife of Al Geiger who retired in December 1980 as the National Engineering Geologist. Mary had been under Hospice care. She is survived by Al, children-Maureen, Patricia, Kathleen, Paul, Thomas and Ellen, and 10 grandchildren. Memorials may go to Mary Purcell Geiger Scholarship Fund c/o Greenbelt Community Center, 99 Centerway, Greenbelt, MD 20770 or Community Hospice, 8200 Professional Place, Suite 104, Landover, MD 20785.
Alton B. Rogers (90) passed away November 21, 2005. “A. B.” retired as Assistant State Conservationist in KY in June 1973. He was raised on a farm in TN, earned a Bachelor's degree in Agriculture from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. Served as a forward observer for the U. S. Army in Germany in World War II. Received a Bronze Star. Returned home and worked his entire career (35) years with SCS. He began his career planting kudzu throughout the South to stop soil erosion. Rising through the ranks, he became the director of the watershed protection and flood prevention program in Kentucky.
He is survived by his wife, Dorothy, daughter Linda Holmes, sons Robert and Ronald, and three grandchildren.
A. Earl Jenkins, Jr. (70) passed away November 21, 2005 in Athens, GA. He was an alumnus of Auburn University with a degree in Engineering and worked as an Area Engineer with the Soil Conservation Service. He served in the United States Air Force Reserves and was a member of the Sons of the American Revolution. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Margaret Louise Palmer Jenkins of Athens, a son, and a daughter. Remembrances may be made to the charity of your choice.
Richard P. Zecher (79) passed away November 20, 2005. Richard retired in 1988 after 35 years with SCS as a Soil Conservation Technician at Watertown, NY. He is survived by his wife, Emma, sons, Richard, Calvin, Robert, Michael, and John, and 9 grandchildren. Memorials may go to the United Community Church of Christ, Carthage, NY or Hospice of Jefferson County, NY.
Larry Patterson passed away November 20, 2005. Larry retired as a Soil Conservation Technician at the Phillipsburg Kansas Field Office. Larry’s wife, Vickie, and their family survive.
Virginia “Ginger” Davis (68) passed away November 19, 2005. Ginger was the wife of Joe Davis who retired as Asst. State Conservationist in Kentucky after having served for many years there as the State Conservation Engineer. She is survived by her husband, sons Joseph and William, daughter Jane McConathy and 2 grandchildren. Memorials may go to UK Lucille P Markey Cancer Center, 800 Rose St., Lexington, KY 40536 or Hospice of Bluegrass, 2312 Alexandria Dr., Lexington, KY 40504.
Rayburn P. Nash (91) passed away November 17, 2005 in Colorado Springs, CO. Rayburn was a native of East Texas, receiving his degree from East Texas State Teachers College in Commerce in 1937 with degrees in Math and Agriculture. He began his SCS career as a Conservation Aid in Greenville, TX. He served as Work Unit Conservationist at Lancaster and Weatherford before moving to Mt. Pleasant as Area Conservationist. He was transferred to Fredericksburg as Area Conservationist and retired in 1978 after 33 years of service. He is survived by a daughter and son-in-law of Colorado Springs, CO. Rayburn will be remembered for his leadership qualities and his gentle ways.
Lois McManus (83) passed away November 17, 2005 after suffering with Alzheimer’s. Lois was the wife of Senior Conservationist Ken McManus who retired as State Conservationist for Missouri in Sept. 1981. Ken and Lois were married 63 years. Ken and their daughter, Debra Paros, and their son, Greg survive.
Marcella Hodges (72) passed away at her home after a long illness on November 15, 2005. Marcella’s husband, Tom, retired from NRCS as the Economist at the South NTC. Tom and their 2 children, Marcella and Charles, and 4 grandchildren survive. Memorials may go to the St. Andrews Episcopal Church, 10th and Lamar, Ft. Worth, TX 76102.
I. Ross Clum (81) passed away November 8, 2005. Ross worked for SCS for 30 years in Allen County, Ohio. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy, 2 sons, daughter, 10 grand children and 18 great grandchildren. Condolences may be sent to Dorothy Clum, 977 N. Hardin Rd., Ada, OH 45810. Memorials may go to the building fund for St. Paul Methodist Church. Ada, OH.
Ruth Fredregill passed away November 2, 2005. Ruth was the wife of Ivan Fredregill who retired from SCS as a District Conservationist in Dec. 1965. Ivan died in July 2003.
Senior Conservationist George Paul (86) passed away October 30, 2005 at Bismarck, ND. George retired in Jan. 1976 as a Conservation Technician. He worked for SCS in Linton, ND for more than 30 years. He is survived by wife Frances, two sons, two daughters, 10 grandchildren, and three great grandchildren.
Senior Conservationist John B. Brush (84) passed away October 19, 2005. John was under Hospice care at his home. He died just 3 days after his 84th birthday. He retired in Jan. 1980 as the Chief, Records and Communications, SCS. He served in several locations after starting his career with SCS in Illinois. He served in the US Navy in WW II, and Korea. He retired from the Navy as a Commander. John is survived by his wife, Laura, and children-Anita, Richard, and John and 7 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. John and Laura have lived in Florida since his retirement. He was buried back home in Illinois on Nov. 12th.
Marilyn Clark (84) passed away October 15, 2005. Marilyn worked in several locations in Illinois as an Area Clerk. Her last position was at Carbondale, IL.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Myra S Pickard (93) passed away October 12, 2005. Myra retired from SCS as a Personnel Assistant in June 1973.
Stanley M. Anderson (81) passed away October 12, 2005. Stanley retired as a District Conservationist in New York. His wife, Lois, survives.
Helen Brasfield passed away October 11, 2005. Helen was the wife of James Brasfield. James retired on Dec. 31, 1986 as a Soil Scientist in the South NTC. Helen is survived by James, 3 children, 8 grandchildren, and 4 great grandchildren.
Robert L. Smith (79) passed away October 10, 2005. Bob retired after 39 years as an Area Conservationist in Illinois during Jan. 1986. He had served in several other positions in Illinois as an Area Engineer. Bob was the ARSCSE Representative for Illinois on two different occasions and did an outstanding job. He was the Midwest Vice President for ARSCSE for several terms. Bob was awarded the ARSCSE Meritorious Services Citation in 2004. The Fighting Illini and the Chicago Cubs always had his avid, if critical interest. His wife, Marylin, survives. They have 2 sons-Joe and Richard, a daughter-Patty, and four grandchildren. Memorials may go to First Presbyterian Church, 602 W. Green St., Urbana, IL 61801.
Alton Mangum (79) passed away October 6. 2005. Alton retired as the State Conservationist in Louisiana. Alton had suffered through a long illness. His wife, Agnes, passed away several years ago.
William Riegel (79) passed away Octber 2, 2005. Bill retired from the SCS New York design office. He is survived by his wife Laura, a daughter and a granddaughter.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist John Burgher (95) passed away in October 2005. John had a fall at his home and complications followed that lead to his death. John retired as an Engineering Technician in Illinois. He had served as an inspector on several watershed projects. John’s wife, Gladys, passed away several years ago. He is survived by his daughter, Martha.
Garland Still (75) passed away October 2, 2005. Garland retired as a District Conservationist. He is survived by his wife, Betty, a son, Garland, a daughter, Grace, and 3 grandchildren.
Herbert O. Evans (85) passed away recently (Oct 2005). Herb retired in Dec. 1977 as the Public Information Officer in Arkansas.
Senior Conservationist Buford Poe (92) passed away recently (Oct 2005) in Ft. Smith, AR. Buford retired in April 1974 as an Area Conservationist in Arkansas.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Grenfall Harms (95) passed away September 30, 2005. He retired from SCS as a Soil Scientist in Dec. 1965. After retiring he worked for 12 years for the University of Minnesota. He started his career in the CCC camp at Spring Valley, MN.
Thomas M. Bush, Jr. (87) passed away September 16, 2005. Mr. Bush was an economist on the Watershed Planning Party in Virginia when he retired.
A. Duane Moore passed away September 11, 2005. Duane retired as a Soil Conservation Technician at the Field Office in Holton, Kansas. He is survived by his wife, Betty, three daughters, a son, and six grandchildren.
Gerald Bowie (65) passed away August 27, 2005. “Jerry” retired from the planning staff in the Virginia State Office. He started his career in his home state of Maine and worked for SCS as an engineer for 27 years. He is survived by his wife, Lois, four sons, David, Robert, Richard and James and 12 grandchildren. The family suggests that memorials go to New Hope Hospice, Eddington, ME 04429.
Richard E. Mayhugh (73) retired Soil Scientist passed away August 23, 2005 in Ft. Worth. Richard was born in Chicago, Ill. and graduated from Kansas State University in 1954 and earned a Masters Degree from Oklahoma State University in the mid-1980’s. He served in numerous locations including positions in Colorado and Oklahoma as a Soil Scientist and served as a Correlator in Kansas in 1980. He was headquarterd in Ft. Worth in 1984 and retired in 1992. He served on the Lincoln Nebraska staff from 1987 until his retirement. He was recognized for his interest in Soil Taxonomy and after retirement received a NRCS award for his volunteer work. He is survived by his wife, Violet “Fern” and children, Everett Mayhugh, Ruth Raichle, David, Michael, and Tim Mayhugh. He also has 11 grandchildren and two greatgrand children.
Janet Erinakes (65) passed away August 23, 2005. Janet was the wife of Dennis Erinakes. Dennis retired in Oct. 1992 as the National Ground Water Geologist. She is survived by Dennis, 2 sons and 5 grandchildren.
Ruby Clowdus (83) passed away August 22, 2005. Two grandsons, 2 granddaughters, 11 great-grandchildren, 5 great-great-grandchildren, a sister, and a nephew survive her.
John D. Alexander passed away August 21, 2005. John retired as Area Conservationist. He resided at Somerset, KY at the time of his death.
Senior Conservationist Sven Johnson (88) passed away August 20, 2005. Sven was an Engineering Technician at Clarkfied, MN at the time of his retirement.
Allen H. King (84) retired Conservation Agronomist passed away August 9, 2005. Allen was a native of Hazel, Okalahoma, but graduated from High School in Lubbock, Texas and earned his degree from Texas Tech in 1941. He served in the Coast Guard from 1942 to 1945. He began his career with the SCS in May of 1945 and worked in Seguin, Yorktown, Floresville, Mission, and Laredo before going to Lubbock as Agronomy Specialist for the western part of Texas. He received the Meritorious Service Award from SCS in 1972 and the Superior Service Award from USDA in 1975. He retired in 1976. He is survived by his wife, Gwendolyn and they would have celebrated their 63rd anniversary in September. He is also survived by a daughter, Deborah Bailey and two grandchildren. Allen was a dedicated and outstanding employee and will be missed.
Buford Perry (81) passed away August 6, 2005. He retired in 1985 after working primarily in Louisiana and Texas. He is survived by his wife Ouida, 3 sons, 7 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren, and a sister.
Henry Schmertzler (81) passed away August 3, 2005. Henry started his career as an Engineer in SCS in Delaware. Early on he transferred to New York State. He retired there in 1983 as an Area Engineer. Henry’s brother, Emory, retired from SCS as the State Conservation Engineer in Delaware. Henry was a veteran of WW II who witnessed the collapse of the bridge at Remagen, fought in the Battle of the Bulge and later was stationed at Dachau. Henry is survived by his wife, Carol, a son, Robert, a daughter, Wendy, 3 grand children and 2 great grandchildren.
Gayle Walden, wife of Travis Walden, formerly an SCS engineer, passed away in Aug 2005 after a bike accident.
Judy Kennedy passed away recently (Aug 2005). She was the wife of Senior Conservationist Grant Kennedy who retired as the State Soil Correlator for California. Grant is confined to a wheel chair and Judy was his primary care giver. She is survived by Grant and a son and a daughter. Grant’s address is: 1316 La Sierra Dr., Sacramento, CA 95864.
Eileen Inhoff (74) passed away July 19, 2005. Eileen retired from the WNTC in December 1994. She also was the State Conservationist’s secretary in New Mexico. She is survived by her husband, Jack, and sons Rick and Kim.
Gary A Schmiedlin (54) passed away July 17, 2005. Gary spent over 30 years as a Soil Conservationist in both Wisconsin and Minnesota. He is survived by his wife, Jackie, a son, a daughter and 2 step children.
Avard B. Linford (89) passed away July 12, 2005 in Des Moines, IA. Ave retired as the State Conservationist for Montana. Earlier he had served, among other positions, as Assistant State Conservationist in North Dakota, and Iowa. He is survived by 2 sons, Ronald and Thomas and 12 grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be sent to the American Heart Association or St. Jude Children’s Research in Memphis, TN.
Leonard Speaker (84) passed away July 3, 2005. Leonard retired at the Leavenworth, KS Field Office after 31 years of service. He is survived by his wife, Helen, and a son and a daughter.
Everett Thaxton “Red” Mullis (83) passed away June 24. 2005. Mr. Mullis retired as District Conservationist at Statesboro, GA after 32 years with Soil Conservation Service. Condolences may be sent to Mrs Marguerite Mullis, 501 Pitt-Moore Road, Statesboro, GA.
Luella Miller (66) passed away June 18, 2005. Luella was the wife of Clayton Miller who was in the Watershed Operations Division in Washington, DC when he retired. She is survived by Clayton, 3 daughters and one grand child.
David Chapman passed away June 15, 2005. He had been fighting lung cancer and finally lost the battle. David was the son of Wayne and Pat Chapman. Wayne retired in Nov. 1989 as a Soil Conservationist in the National Office. Surviving are his wife, Karen, a daughter, his parents and 2 sisters. Memorials may go to Lung Cancer Support Community, PO Box 1205 Euless, TX 76039 or Massey Cancer Center, The Thomas Palliative Care, PO Box 98037, Richmond, VA 23298-0037.
Our beloved son David went to be with the Lord on Wednesday evening, June 15, and he is at peace. David was an optimist and a fighter and he never gave up. He was in great pain and had fought long and hard with great courage for over two years. We and his sisters and wife were blessed to be at his side in his final moments and to see that old pleasant, peaceful look on his face when he went to heaven.
When David was in 9th grade, he did some research on trumpet players in heaven, and he told us then that someday he would be one of them. Heaven has a new trumpet player now.
Thank you, everyone, for your prayers, good wishes, and happy memories of our very beloved son David. - Wayne and Pat Chapman
Ivan D. Moffitt (84) passed away June 12, 2005. Ivan retired in 1980 as the Financial Manager in the OR State Office. He was struck with polio at age 32 but went on to earn a college degree and have a successful career. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Mary, two daughters, three grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.
Ken Robbins (75) passed away June 11, 2005. Ken was a District Conservationist in MN. He passed away at Trenton, MO.
Dennis Roscoe passed away recently (June 2005). Dennis was the District Conservationist in Towner, ND at the time of his retirement.
Willis Demke, former State Conservation Engineer passed away recently (June 2005).
Senior Conservationist Ordean Berg (89) passed away recently (June 2005). He retired in June 1980 as the Area Conservationist in Fargo, ND.
Senior Conservationist Howard Stout (92) passed away recently (June 2005). He retired as a Soil Scientist in ND in June 1968.
Senior Conservationist Thesa Shady (91) passed away May 29, 2005. She retired in 1976 from the Financial Management Section of the State Office. She was World War II veteran having served in the WAVES. She is survived by two daughters, five grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Keith S. Kreger (92) passed away May 29, 2005. Keith retired in July 1972 as a District Conservationist in Missouri. He was preceded in death by both of his wives. He is survived by nephews and nieces.
Dwight W. Swanson (83) passed away May 26, 2005. Dwight retired as a Soil Scientist from the National Office of SCS in Dec. 1979. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn, 3 daughters, a son, a step-daughter and 5 grandchildren. Memorials may go to either American Cancer Society or the American Diabetes Association.
Senior Conservationist Homer A. Taff passed away May 17, 2005 in Fort Worth, Texas. Homer was a native of Dustin, Oklahoma and a graduate of Oklahoma A & M in 1940. He earned his MBA from the University of Michigan in 1962. He served in several locations in Texas as a soil conservationist and soil scientist and was State Conservationist of Kentucky from 1962 to 1969. He also served as the Assistant Regional Director of the Fort Worth Regional Technical Service Center from 1969 to 1973. He received the USDA Superior Service Award in May of 1957. He is survived by daughter, Kathy Torres, 4 grandsons, and several nieces and nephews. Homer was a dedicated conservationist and was highly respected by all who worked with him.
Kenneth L. Bigelow (79) passed away May 8, 2005 in California. Kenneth retired as a District Conservationist in Feb. 1981. His wife, Betty, survives.
Emmett Boland (76) passed away May 7, 2005. Emmett retired as the Assistant State Conservation Engineer in KY. Emmett’s wife, Carolyn passed away just 3 weeks prior to Emmett’s death. Both suffered with cancer. Memorials may go to Hospice of Bluegrass, 3212 Alexandria Dr. Lexington, KY.
Jesse W. "Skip" Bennington (84) passed away May 3, 2005. Skip was a Civil Engineering Technician at Harrisonburg, VA at the time of his retirement. He is a decorated WW II Veteran with a Purple Heart and Bronze Star. His wife, daughter, and 4 grandsons survive.
Walt Baxley passed away in TX from complications following colon surgery (May 2005). His wife, Bernelle, a son and 2 grandchildren survive. Bernelle's address is 5608 Waltham, Ft Worth, TX 76133
Life Member Lyle Laberee (78) passed away recently (May 2005). Lyle retired as RC&D coordinator in 1984. He served for years as the ARSCSE representative for SD. Norma, his wife, survives.
William “Bill” Broce (83) passed away April 29, 2005. Bill served in numerous locations in Missouri. Included in his tours was RC&D Coordinator and Area Conservationist. He retired in 1987. His wife, Muriel, survives. She resides at 1308 Walnut St., Bethany, MO 64424.
John “Dub” Tippie (76) passed away April 25, 2005. “Dub” spent 36 years in SCS. He served in Ohio, Texas, Connecticut, and closed out his career as the State Conservationist in Kansas. He also spent 2 years in Indonesia teaching conservation. He is survived by his wife, De, 2 sons, a daughter, and six grandchildren. Memorials may go to the First United Methodist Church, 946 Vermont St. Lawrence, KS 66044.
Peggy Crowley (70) passed away April 21, 2005. She was the wife of Richard "Dick" Crowley who was District Conservationist for Mercer County, Pa. for many years.
Walt Baxley passed away from complications after colon surgery in TX (reported 4/05). His wife, Bernelle, a son and 2 grandchildren survive. Bernelle’s address is 5608 Waltham, Ft. Worth, TX 76133
Senior Conservationist Howard Stout (92) passed away recently (reported 4/05). He retired as a Soil Scientist in ND in June 1968.
Senior Conservationist Ordean Berg (89) passed away recently (reported 4/05). He retired in June 1980 as the Area Conservationist in Fargo, ND.
Willis Demke former State Conservation Engineer in ND passed away recently (reported 4/05).
Dennis Roscoe passed away recently (reported 4/05). Dennis was the District Conservationist in Towner, ND at the time of his retirement.
Carolyn Boland passed away April 18, 2005. Carolyn was the wife of Emmet Boland who retired as the Assistant State Engineer in Kentucky. Emmet is also having some very serious health problems.
Bill Laird passed away April 16, 2005. Bill retired as a Soil Scientist in Baker City, OR. He is survived by his wife, Mary Sue Rightmire.
Senior Conservationist Juan Villafane (86) passed away April 9, 2005. Juan retired in August 1979 as Administrative Officer. He was born September 3, 1918, and is now buried in the U.S. National Cemetary in Puerto Rico. His wife, Hilda, survives.
Senior Conservationist Lawrence Winkler (85) passed away in April, 2005. Lawrence retired in Jan. 1985 as a Conservation Technician in Ohio. His wife, Arlene, survives.
Senior Conservationist Lawrence E. Tripp (88) passed away recently (Apr 2005). Lawrence retired as a District Conservationist in July 1975.
Wesley L. Ellis (92) passed away March 27, 2005. Wes retired as Director of the Cartographic Unit in Portland, OR. His wife, Rowena, died in 1988. Two daughters, a son, and numerous grand and great grandchildren survive him.
Tinsley Mack (80) passed away March 26, 2005. Tinsley retired as the State Geologist in VA.
Samuel Brugger passed away March 22, 2005. Sam was an Economist on the watershed planning party in Harrisburg and the NTC in Chester, Pa.
Virginia Aten passed away March 21, 2005. Virginia was the wife of Fred Aten. Senior Conservationist Fred retired as Area Conservationist in Ohio in Jan. 1979.
Sam Brugger (79) was born August 4th, 1925 and passed away March 21, 2005 at a Nursing home in Camp Hill, PA. Sam died of Super Nuclear Palsy, a disease similar to Parkinson, which he had for about 10 years. He was good, mentally, but could not speak or eat solid food for over a year. His wife of 59 years, Bernice, went to see and help feed him every day.
Sam was the Economist on the Planning Party in PA for many years. Frank Resides recalls "I met Sam in the summer of '62, when he and others came to Wellsboro, PA to work on the Marsh Creek Watershed in Tioga County. I went along with him to collect flood damage schedules for the economic evaluation. We worked together on several PA watershed projects, before I transferred to MD in 1965, but have stayed in touch ever since. We enjoyed many hunting and fishing trips, and had a few beers together from time to time. Sam was a great friend and co-worker, whom we will miss dearly."
The family has asked that memorials go to: ASCERA Care Hospice, 4813 Jonestown Rd., Harrisburg, PA 17109
Bernice lives at: 4721-A Charles Rd.
Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
Tel. 717 761 7647
Lucy Tharpe (80) passed away Sunday, March 20, 2005. Lucy was the wife of Will L. Tharpe who retired in December, 1990 as a valued member of the State Resource Conservationist staff in Athens, Georgia. Lucy is survived by her husband, Will, four grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren. Will continues to reside in Athens, Georgia.
Lucy Tharpe (80) passed away March 20, 2005. Lucy was the wife of Will L. Tharpe who retired in Dec. 1990 as a member of the State Resource Conservationist staff in Georgia. Her husband, 4 grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren survive Lucy. Will’s address is 230 Auburn Pkwy, Athens, GA 30606.
Ronnie Boston (59) recently retired from NRCS passed away suddenly on March 17, 2005. Ronnie was a graduate of East Texas State University and served in several locations in Texas as a Soil Conservationist and District Conservationist. His wife, Sandra, two daughters and four grandchildren survive. Ronnie will be greatly missed by his family and his peers.
Duane Crane (78) passed away March 15, 2005. Duane retired as the District Conservationist at Lakeview, OR. His wife, Juanita, a son, a daughter and three grandchildren survive. Juanita’s address is: PO Box 6878, Kingman, AZ 86402.
Lawrence L Sands (85) passed away March 13, 2005. Lawrence was with SCS at Canandaigua, NY for 25 years. He is survived by his wife, Gladys.
Robert Turner (81) passed away March 11, 2005 in Terrell, Texas. Robert was a soil conservation technician for over 25 years, working at Maybank, Hillsboro, Kaufman, Terrell, and Greenville, Texas. Robert was a dedicated employee and enjoyed his retirement and was very active in the Texas SCS/NRCS Reunion each year. He was also active in the Boy Scout program and a Steward in the Methodist Church. He is survived by his wife, Billie and two daughters.
Robert Wayne Mann (89) passed away March 10, 2005 in Cameron, Texas. Robert was the retired District Conservationist at Cameron. Long before “environmentalism” became a household word Mann was advising farmers and ranchers of Milam County on agricultural practices to enhance crop and grazing land production. One AP reporter referred to him in the 1970’s as “the conscience of Central Texas”. He was a graduate of Texas Tech University and was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Cameron. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, two sons and a daughter and several grandchildren.
Agnes Theobold (89) passed away March 9, 2005. Agnes retired as Accounting Technician from the State Office in Ohio. Memorials can be made to Alzheimers Association, 3380 Tremont Ave., Columbus, Ohio 43221 or to the Indianola Church of Christ, 2141 Indianola Ave. Columbus, Ohio 43201.
Mary Martha Stoner (82) passed away March 8, 2005. Mary Martha was the wife of William "Bill" Stoner former Conservation Technician in Juniata County, Pa. Bill resides in Mifflintown, Pa. In addition to Bill, she is survived by 5 children, 14 granchildren and 9 great grandchildren.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Franklin Newhall (91) passed away March 4, 2005. Franklin was a Climatologist at the time of his retirement in Feb. 1980. His career with SCS was primarily as a Soil Scientist.
Margaret Core (92) passed away March 2, 2005. Margaret was the wife of Ed Core. Ed died in 2003. He retired as the Head, Engineering and Watershed Planning Unit in Portland, OR. Her daughter and son and five grandchildren and six great grandchildren survive her.
Senior Conservationist Herbert Kollmorgen (91) passed away February 21, 2005. Herb retired in 1973 after a 35-year career as a Soil Scientist. His wife, Lou, died in 2004. A son, two daughters, and numerous grand children and great grandchildren survive him.
Senior Conservationist Robert F. Fonner (84) passed away February 16, 2005. "Frank" retired as the Upper Darby, NTSC Engineering Geologist in Oct. 1977 after 30 years with SCS. He returned home to West Virginia and worked 10 years for the West Virginia Geologic Survey. His wife of 56 years, Betty, son James, daughter Frances, and 8 grand children survives him.
Senior Conservationist Leonard Wagley (95) passed away February 14, 2005. Leonard was a Soil Conservation Technician at Metropolis, IL when he retired in Dec. 1972. His two sons, Lawrence and Phillip and several grandchildren survive him.
Henry Prior passed away in February 2005. Henry was a District Conservationist in several locations in TN.
Senior Conservationist J. G. Horton (90) has passed away (2/2005). He retired in Dec. 1976 after a career as a Soil Conservationist and District Conservationist in Arkansas.
James C. Fluke (92) passed away January 27, 2005. Jim had a 32-year career with SCS. Daughters, Gail Laurent, and Janet Parsons and 15 grand children and one great grand child survive him. Memorials may go to Taylor House Hospice, Des Moines, IA 50310.
Dan H. Norton (92) passed away January 22, 2005. Dan was an Engineer and spent his 39-year career at Rome, GA. His career started as an Engineer with the CCC’s. He retired from the Army Reserve as a Lieutenant Colonel. Survivors include a daughter, Myra Martin, a son, Dan, and grand and great-grandchildren. Memorials may go to the First Presbyterian Church, Preparing a New Generation Fund, 101 E 3rd Ave., Rome, GA 30161.
Ann Wood (76) passed away January 21, 2005. For many years prior to her retirement, Ann was the Secretary for the Engineering Team in Richmond, VA.
Senior Conservationist Albert J. McDowell (86) passed away January 18, 2005. "Mac" retired as the District Conservationist for the Napa California Conservation District. He was active up until his death managing his ranch and vineyard. His wife, Olive, survives.
Howard Stevermer passed away January 16, 2005. Howard started his career in Minn. and ended it from a Resource Conservation position in the National Office. He is survived by his wife, Jane. Jane’s address is 401 Kensington Rd., Taylors, SC 29687.
R. Scott Sumison (61) passed away January 16, 2005. Scott was the Nebraska State Geologist for NRCS at the time of his death. He was active in his church and in his community. His wife, Barbara Lee, and sons, Nathan and John, and daughter Stacy and grandchildren survive him. Memorials may go to the Humanitarian Aid, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
Thomas B. Jones (74) passed away January 16, 2005. Tom retired as the Area Engineer at Medina, OH in October 1990. He had served in that Area for most of his career in SCS and NRCS. After leaving the Agency he started an engineering business and became active in Conservation District and RC&D activities. His wife, Jane, his daughters, Debi, Carolyn, and Connie and his son Tom survive him. There are also numerous grand and great grand children. Memorials may go to Medina Cty Park District, 6364 Deerview Ln, Medina, OH 44256 or Hospice of Medina Cty, 797 N Court St. Medina, OH 44256.
Ray T. Margo (70) passed away suddenly at his home on January 15, 2005. Ray was a native of Starr County, Texas and a 1956 graduate of Texas A & M University. He began his career with the Soil Conservation Service, working as a Range Conservationist, District Conservationist, Area Conservationist in several locations in Texas, and as Assistant State Conservationist and State Conservationist of New Mexico. Ray retired in June 1993. He was truly a gentleman and a strong proponent of resource conservation. His family and friends will miss him. His wife, Minerva, five daughters and several grandchildren survive.
Carl Jennings passed away January 15, 2005. Carl retired as Engineering Technician for the watershed program. His wife Nell resides at 7299 Hwy 67 N, Popular Bluff, MO 63901-8095.
Wilfred "Bill" Wortman (76) passed away January 12, 2005. Bill retired in Jan. 1984 as the State Construction Engineer in Nebraska. After retiring Bill worked for a consulting firm for 16 years. Bill was a pilot and flew 2 planes that he restored. His wife, Libbie, sons, Mark and David, and daughters, Ann, Michaela, and Betty survive. Memorials may go to Cathedral of the Risen Christ, 3600 Sheridan Blvd, Lincoln, NE 68506-6127.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Carl H. Zimmerman (95) passed away January 12, 2005. Carl retired as District Conservationist at Corning, IA in Jan. 1971. He was an active participant in his community and continued those activities after retiring. His wife, Lorraine, daughter, Jean and son, Chuck, survive as well as grand and great grand children. Memorials may go to the Soil and Water Conservation Society.
Marshall Edens passed away January 12, 2005. Marshall retired as Asst. St. Conservationist-Water Resources in Ohio Oct. 1990. He served for many years as the Agr. Economist on the Planning Party. Memorial Gifts may be made to: American Legion Post 283, 7725 Refugee Rd NW, Pickerington, Ohio 43147.
Senior Conservationist Frank W. Sanders (88) passed away January 7, 2005. Frank retired as the Assistant State Soil Scientist, IN, in March 1979. His wife, Irene, and four sons and a daughter survive him.
Benno Michels passed away in January 2005. Benno was serving as Budget Analyst in the MN State Office at the time of his retirement in 1976. His wife, Helen, a daughter, 4 grandchildren, and 6 great-grandchildren survive.
Senior Conservationist Morlan Nelson (88) has passed away (1/2005). "Morley" was an early snow survey hydrologist. After retirement, he became a preeminent raptor expert. He was instrumental in the establishment of the International Birds of Prey organization and the Peregrine Fund. He often flew his own eagles and falcons. He worked with Disney in making several movies and documentaries involving raptors.
Benno Michels passed away in Jan. 2005. Benno was serving as Budget Analyst in the MN State Office at the time of his retirement in 1976. His wife, Helen, a daughter, 4 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren survive.
Robert Gelbach passed away in Dec. 2004. Robert was the husband of Jean Gelbach. Jean retired in June 1978 as a Purchasing Agent in the State Office in Wisconsin.
Ralph L. Turman (90) passed away December 28, 2004. Ralph retired in 1972 as an engineer in North Dakota. He started his career in the CCC’s at Mandan, ND. He is survived by his wife, Della, their 4 sons, Frank, Joe, Mike, and Rich, and by 11 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.
Charles (Chalky) Vaughn passed away in Florida just after Christmas 2004. He is survived by his wife, Vickie, 10915 Bristol Bay Dr., Bradenton, FL. 34209.
Chester Potter passed away December 26, 2004. Chester retired as the Soil Conservation Technician at the Shelbyville, IL Field Office in 1987. His wife, Bonnie, lives in Shelbyville.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist James D. White (95) passed away December 25, 2004. James retired as a District Conservationist from SCS in Dec. 1976. He served in several districts in Georgia during his career. A son, Ivan and 2 daughters, Janis McMillan and Kathy White survive him. Memorials may go the First Baptist Church of Winder, PO Box 340, Winder, GA 30680 or to the Winder Lions Club, PO Box 172, Winder GA 30680.
Christine Lytton passed away December 25, 2004 in South Jordan, UT. She was the wife of Warren "Jim" Lytton who retired from the National Office in 1988. They had been married for 54 years.
Senior Conservationist Don C. Larner (95) passed away December 24, 2004. Don was a 1933 graduate of Texas A & M University and worked for the Soil Conservation Service in Texas until his retirement in 1966. He served as District Conservationist and Area Conservationist. After retirement he worked for the Texas Water Development Board in Austin until his retirement in 1977. He was a member of the Methodist Church and is survived by three sons, Eric, Mark and Eddie and two grandchildren.
Margaret "Marty" Martin passed away just before Christmas, 2004. She was the wife of Benny Martin. Benny retired as Asst. Chief, Midwest, in June 1982.
Edward A. Gaskins (70) of Parkersburg, WV passed away December 23, 2004, at Camden-Clark Memorial Hospital. He was born August 18, 1934, a son of the late Vance Edward and Edna Virginia Ridgeway Gaskins. Mr. Gaskins was a 1960 graduate of West Virginia University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in forestry. He began his career in West Virginia and retired in 1986 from the US Department of Agriculture as a state wildlife biologist in Missouri. He was a Korean Conflict Army veteran, serving from 1955-1957. He was a member of the American Legion Post 15 of Parkersburg, a member of the National Rifle Association, he enjoyed participating in Civil War reenactments and was a member of the Buckskinning Club in Missouri. Surviving are his wife of 49 years, Mary Katherine Gaskins; a daughter and son-in-law, Karen Virginia and Thomas Pino; and two grandchildren, Jennifer Maxwell and Casey Stoehman. He was preceded in death by his parents and an infant son, Mark Gaskins. His grave is in the Bridgeport Cemetery, Bridgeport, WV. Memorial Contributions may be made to the Camden-Clark Foundation, PO Box 1077, Parkersburg, WV 26102-1077.
Ray Cope (88) passed away December 19, 2004. Ray retired as the National Grout Engineer in May 1987. Ray, who was born in Hirschberg, Germany, provided a unique and special skill to SCS. Ray’s wife, Gabriele, died some time back. Memorials may go to the Gabriele Cope Fund at Nebraska Wesleyan University.
Ruth H. Culp (92) passed away December 17, 2004. Ruth was the wife of Mel Culp who died in 1982. Mel was the National Design Engineer for SCS when he retired in the late 1970’s. Ruth was an accomplished pianist who at one time formed a string trio that played in nursing homes for over 25 years. A daughter, Joan Carol Poor, and a son, James Culp, survive her.
William Shumate passed away December 16, 2004. Bill was a Soil Scientist in Ohio at the time of his retirement.
Senior Conservationist Dillard Huffaker (83) passed away December 11, 2004. Dillard retired as the Area Conservationist at Emporia, KS in March 1983. His wife, Doris, survives. She may be reached at 1410 Brookview Dr., Casper, WY 82604.
Claude K. Compton (76) passed away suddenly on December 7, 2004 at Nacogdoches, TX. Claude was a graduate of Texas A & M University and had a Masters degree from Stephen F. Austin State University. He began his career with the SCS in Nacogdoches and spent 40 years, serving as a Soil Conservationist, District Conservationist, Area Conservationist and Agronomy Specialist. He was a member of Calvary Baptist Church and the East Texas Wood Workers Club. His wife, Martha Ann, 2 daughters, 2 stepdaughters, and a brother survive.
George Stone (85) passed away December 6, 2004 in Nacogdoches, Texas. George was a native of Nacogdoches, graduating from Stephen F. Austin State University with a degree in Agriculture and Biology. He worked for the US Customs Service and served as a Principal at Teneha High School. He retired from the USDA Soil Conservation Service with 32 year service. George served in Texas in several positions including District Conservationist, and Area Conservationist. He retired from the SCS as the State Conservationist of California. He received many awards in watershed planning and construction. George is survived by his wife Margaret, two daughters, two granddaughters, one grandson and a sister. Memorials can be made to the Perritte Memorial Methodist Church, 1025 Durst, Nacogdoches, Texas 75964.
Elvin V. "Wick" Wickline (82) passed away December 2, 2004. "Wick" retired as an Assistant State Conservationist in Indiana in August 1979. He started his career in West Virginia, spent 2 years in Algeria for US Agency for International Development, and returned to West Virginia where he was an Area Conservationist prior to going to Indiana. His wife, Elizabeth, survives him.
Forrest Closner passed away in late Nov. 2004. Forrest retired out of the Idaho State Office. Earlier he was an Area Conservationist in that state.
Mary Jane Magill, wife of Donald Magill, passed away during Nov. 2004 in Mechanicsburg, PA.
Virginia McCracken passed away Nov. 28, 2004 in Greensboro, NC. Virginia was the wife of Ralph McCracken who retired as Deputy Chief, SCS. Ralph passed away in March of 2004.
Senior Conservationist Gordon Wing (95) passed away Nov. 26, 2004 in Eau Claire, WI. Gordon started his career with the SES and ended it as a soil scientist on March 2, 1973. Gordon was a very active person. Included were biking and walking with his wife. They were active in their church and in senior activities. Gordon’s wife, Margaret and three sons survive.
James K. Herrmann (87) passed away Nov. 23, 2004. Kenny worked for SCS as an intermittent employee from 1957 into the 1990’s. His wife, Mary, of 61 years and 2 sons and a daughter, survives him.
Lucille Nylander (90) passed away November 15, 2004. Lucille was the wife of Paul Nylander who retired as the National Construction Engineer in June 1986. Paul and Lucille had celebrated their 61st Wedding Anniversary in March 2004. They had made their annual trip to the west to visit family in the summer. A fall while on the trip left Paul with a broken arm. Paul and Lucille celebrated their common 90th birthday on Oct. 2 with all of their family.
Barbara Jane Kinsey passed away November 13, 2004. Barbara was the wife of Franklin Kinsey who retired in June 1986 as the Area Engineer at Manhattan Kansas. Frank and their son, Hugh, and 3 granddaughters survive.
Francis Dylla passed away in November 2004. Francis was the District Conservationist in Stearns County, MN at the time of his retirement.
Francis Dylla passed away in November 2004. Francis was the District Conservationist in Stearns County, MN at the time of his retirement.
Gail Sickeler passed away in Novrmber 2004. Gail retired in 1977 as the Area Consevationist at Fergus Falls, MN. Earlier in his career he served as a Soil Scientist and Soil Conservationist.
Gail Sickeler passed away in November 2004. Gail retired in 1977 as the Area Conservationist at Fergus Falls, MN. Earlier in his career he served as a Soil Scientist and Soil Conservationist.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Bernie D. Peterson (95) passed away October 27, 2004. Bernie served as the first District Conservationist for Pierce County, WI. He started there following the CCC days and served there until his retirement in Oct 1969.
Senior Conservationist Harold Lee Dean (95) passed away October 24, 2004 in Sac City, IA. He retired in 1972 as Head, Cartographic Unit, Fort Worth. He is survived by his wife, Margaret, one son, one daughter, four grandchildren, three great grandchildren, and his twin brother Hartzell Dean.
James "Dean" Maxwell (72) passed away October 21, 2004 in Salt Lake City, UT. Dean worked 34 years for the SCS. He is survived by his wife, Orell, seven children, 22 grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.
Keith Donelson (72) of Savoy, IL passed away Wednesday, October 20, 2004. Keith retired as Assistant State Conservationist in Illinois on May 31, 1987. His wife, Barbara, survives. Memorials may be made to the Champaign County Humane Society, 1911 E. Main Street, Urbana, IL 61802 or OR Safefordville United Methodist Church, RR 5 Lake Kohola Road, Emporia, KS 66801.
Clarence Carlson passed away October 19, 2004. Clarence retired from SCS in October 1986 after his career as a Conservation Technician in Utah. He is survived by his wife, Mary Jean.
Maxine Glover passed away October 18, 2004. Maxine was the widow of Frank Glover. The death of Frank Glover was reported in the July issue of the Newsletter. Frank retired as the State Resource Conservationist in West Virginia.
Elaine McArthur passed away October 11, 2004. Elaine was the widow of Donald McArthur former State Conservationist in Rhode Island. Don passed away August 16, 2000.
Lloyd E. Thomas, (65) of Pinewild, NC, passed away Friday, October 1, 2004 at First Health Moore Regional Hospital, Pinehurst, NC.
He was born in Ebensburg, Cambria County, PA on February 15, 1939 a son of the late Leonard and Maude (Lloyd) Thomas. He graduated from the Pennsylvania State University in 1961. Lloyd retired as the Head, Engineering Staff, Northeast NTC in April 1994 after 36 years of service. Prior to that he was the Construction Engineer for the Northeast. He relocated to North Carolina last year.
Lloyd is survived by his wife of 40 years, Shirley Lou Simons Thomas and their children Terri and Christopher. Memorials may go to the charity of your choice.
Senior Conservationist Leroy Boger passed away September 22, 2004. Leroy retired from SCS after having served as a District Conservationist in several districts in Ohio. His wife, Alta, survives.
David Allen passed away in Lee, NH on September 17, 2004. Less than 22 hours later David’s wife, Natalie, also passed away. David was the State Biologist for New Hampshire and Maine prior to his retirement in 1979.
Evelyn M. Hutchinson passed away September 13, 2004 in Temple, Texas. Evelyn was a long-time employee of the Soil Conservation Service State Office in Temple. She retired in the late 1970’s. She served as the Secretary to the State Conservationist for many years. Evelyn was a dedicated and highly efficient employee and had many friends in the SCS. She was preceeded in death by her husband, C.E. Hutchinson, also a former SCS employee. She is survived by a son, Larry, a daughter, Linda Gunter, three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Life Member Larry Babich (62) passed away September 13, 2004. Larry earned his engineering degree in Montana, and held various positions in SCS. He will long be remembered for his work as a member of the multi-state watershed planning staff with a major project in Hawaii. He retired in 1997 as the National Operations Coordinator for the Watershed & Wetland Division at National Headquarters. He was diagnosed as having liver cancer in May. Larry is survived by his wife, Sherry, two daughters and a son. Sherry's address is:
1005 SE 141st Ct. Vancouver, WA 98683 (360) 604-9678
Owen Lee remembers when Larry joined the Watershed staff in the National Office, he brought a lightheartedness and sense of humor that we all enjoyed. Whenever, we celebrated a birthday he would always sing "THE" birthday song which went like this:
This is your birthday song
It is not very long
Ta Da!!!
Later we added music - I brought a drum back from the African exhibit at Epcot Center for a crescendo as Larry ended the singing with a leg kick. Larry was the "life" of the party - - he will be missed.
Robert Hinton passed away September 8, 2004 in Jackson, MS. He is survived by family members in Gallatin, TN where he will be buried. Bob was a Soil Scientist in the State Office.
May Nikolaus passed away September 4, 2004. She was the wife of Gordon Nikolaus who retired from the WNTC.
Wilma Crowell (83) passed away September 4, 2004 in Rye, NH. Wilma served for many years as the Secretary for the State Conservationist. She was secretary for both Ken Grant and Bob Addison.
Thomas U. Yager (86) passed away August 30, 2004 in Mesa, AZ. He retired as an Assistant Soil Correlator in Feb. 1974.
Lawrence D. Pollard (67) passed away August 25, 2004 in Warrenton, MO. Lawrence was an engineering technician in Perry, Lincoln, Cole, Warren and St Charles counties before retiring in Harrison County in 1984.
Senior Conservationist George W. Sanderson (94) passed away August 23, 2004 in Cold Springs, MN. Worked in the Red River Valley region of ND for 36 years and retired in 1972 as District Conservationist. He received a 1956 USDA Superior Service Award for sustained and outstanding ability as Work Unit Conservationist 1941-1955 in Larimore, ND. He is survived by one son, two daughters, nine grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.
D. B. Polk passed away August 22, 2004. D. B. was a retired Resource Conservationist in Texas. He was a veteran of World War II and a graduate of Texas A & M University with a degree in Range Science. He worked in several locations in Texas and served on the State Technical Staff in Temple for a number of years.
Glenn Crosby, Sr. Cons. passed away in 2004.
Kenneth E. Growe (79) passed away August 19, 2004. Ken retired as Deputy State Conservationist in Maine in Oct, 1981. He served as the Maine ARSCSE Representative for many, many years. He is survived by his wife, Marilynn, sons, Douglas, Charles and Gary, and 4 grandchildren. Memorials may go to Save The Children, PO Box 980, Westport, Conn. 06881.
Kenneth was born Feb. 8, 1925, in Canton, NY. He was a veteran of World War II, serving from 1943 to 1946 as a sergeant, aerial gunner, 880th squadron, 383rd bomb group, stationed in Foggia, Italy. He was a graduate of Ft. Hays State University (Hays, Kansas), Class of 1951. Kenneth held a Bachelor of Science in Botany. He was a member of St. Mary's Parish, Bangor. Kenneth was also a member of the Knights of Columbus; Elks Lodge No. 244, Bangor; Society of Retired Soil Conservationists; Aerial Gunner's Association and was a charter member of the World War II Memorial Foundation. Ken was an avid gardener, reader, traveler and lifelong Yankee fan who took particular delight in the annual demise of the Red Sox.
Dave Richmond passed away August 16, 2004. Dave retired as the State Soil Scientist in Arizona. Dave’s wife passed away some time ago.
Edwin E. King (76) passed away August 14, 2004. Ed was the District Conservationist at Harrodsburg, KY for many years.
Bill Teasley passed away August 8, 2004 only days after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Bill retired in 1994 as the lead electronic technician in the Portland Data Collection Office. Before Snow Surveys, he served 28 years in the Air Force.
Charles Wilbur Naylor (98) passed away August 5, 2004, at Cloud County Health Center. He was born Sept. 28, 1905, on a farm near Poplar Bluff, MO. He graduated from Kansas State College in 1931 with a degree in Electrical Engineering. During World War II, he served in the U.S. Signal Corps attached to the Air Force in New Guinea and the Philippines as a Radar Officer. Since July 1, 1934, Charles worked for the Department of Agriculture as a conservationist. He was the Cloud County District Conservationist from 1947 until he retired in 1975. He was a registered professional engineer with the State of Kansas.
He was active in the Methodist Church, serving on local and district levels. For six years, he served on the Kansas West Conference Committee on Institutions. Five of these years, he was the Conference Representative on the Asbury Hospital Board of Trustees. In April of 1979, he was elected to the Concordia City Commission and served as mayor. He was with the Boy Scouts of America since 1940. He received the highest award, the Silver Beaver Award in 1992. Wilbur was a member of Rotary International since 1939. For many years, he was secretary of the Concordia Rotary Club. He was an amateur (Ham) radio operator for over 70 years. He was a life member of the Cloud County Genealogical Society, the Cloud County Historical Society, the Soil and Water Conservation Society, AARP, National Association of Retired Federal Employees and a member of the VFW Post #588. His wife, Annamary Naylor of Concordia survives him.
Funeral services will be at 10 a.m., Tuesday, Aug. 10, at the First United Methodist Church in Concordia with the Rev. Ken Parker officiating. Burial will be in Pleasant Hill Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church, Boy Scouts of America, or Rotary Polio Plus Foundation.
Peggy Lois Nelson (57) passed away August 3, 2004 in Farmington, UT. She was the victim of pancreatic cancer. Peg was the wife of Phillip (Skip) Nelson who recently retired as State Conservationist in Utah.
Gerald "Jerry" Riepl passed away July 27, 2004. Jerry retired in 1986 as District Conservationist, Cimarron, Kansas. His wife, Helen, and 4 sons survive.
Warwick (Bill) M. Tinsley (84) of Cape Elizabeth, ME passed away July 24, 2004. Bill retired as the State Conservationist in Maine in 1978. He is survived by his wife, Jacqueline, three children, ten grandchildren, and two great grandchildren.
Senior Conservationist Charles H. Innes (91) passed away July 17, 2004. Born Sept 1, 1913, Charlie retired as a Soil Scientist in Ohio in June 1972. He had resided in a family care center for a number of years.
Charles A. Brooks passed away July 15, 2004 in Hillsboro, Texas. Charles was a retired Soil Scientist and worked in several locations in Texas. He was a graduate of Texas Tech University in 1949 and he served as a bomber pilot in World War II. He retired as a Lt. Colonel in the Air Force Reserves. His wife of 60 years, a daughter and two grandchildren survives him.
Paul E. Minor (78) passed away July 9, 2004 in Columbia, MO. Paul retired as a Soil Scientist in the State Office in 1994 after 29 years with the SCS. His wife, Helen, survives at 3103 Kunlan Drive, Columbia, MO 65203.
Klaus Flach (77) passed away July 8, 2004. Klaus retired in Oct. 1988 as Special Assistant to the Chief and prior to that position he was Director, Soil Survey. His wife, Helen, survives him. She is currently the Asst. State Conservationist, Programs in California. She spent a number of years in the National Office as Head, Records and Reports Branch in Admin Services.
Dr. Klaus Werner Flach of Davis, CA was born March 24, 1927 in Kolbermoor, Bavaria, Germany, the son of Dr. Werner Flach and Bianca Kolmgren Flach. He received a B.S. in Agriculture at the Technical University of Munich, and then came to the United States in 1950 where he earned an M.S. and a Ph.D. in Soil Science at Cornell University. His 30-year career with the USDA Soil Conservation Service began as a research soil scientist and took him to Washington, D.C. where he was Director of the Soil Survey and Associate Deputy Chief for Natural Resource Assessment. During his USDA career, he represented the United States on a variety of international and United Nations environmental summits, and was a leader in improving the technology for classification of soils. After his retirement from SCS in 1988, he became a senior research scholar at Colorado State University and later taught at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. He is a Fellow of the Soil Science Society of America and a member of the German Soil Science Society and Sigma Xi. He is survived by his wife, Helen Flach, of Davis; son Andrew Flach of Tucson; daughter Martha Flach of New York City; brother Dr. Andreas Flach of Tubingen, Germany; and stepdaughters Marsha Stephens and Marian Gilbert of Virginia and Marla Gilbert of West Virginia. He is preceded in death by his first wife, Elisabeth Goding Flach.
The family suggests that as an alternative to flowers, donations may be made to the Smithsonian Institution Soils Exhibit, care of the Soil Science Society of America Agronomic Science Foundation, 677 S. Segoe Road, Madison, WI 53711, in memory of Klaus Flach. Dr. Flach was a member of the Smithsonian Exhibit design committee and was intent on seeing that an educational exhibit on soils become part of the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C.
Gene Mills (74) passed away July 5, 2004. Gene retired in Dec. 1988 as the Deputy State Conservationist in MA. His wife Patricia survives Gene. Her address is PO Box 2065, Amherst, MA 01004. Memorials may be sent to the Building Fund, Dwight Chapel, PO Box 1270, Belchertown, MA 01007.
David S. Whitenack (82) passed away July 4, 2004. Dave retired in August 1980 from the National Office of SCS as an Administrative Specialist. He started his career as a Conservation Technician in New Jersey. He joined the National Office in 1955. After his retirement he was a volunteer tutor in Fairfax City Elementary schools and was active in church work. Dave was a regular attendee at the Northern Virginia SCS Retirees Tuesday Breakfast.
Thomas L. Abshure (83) passed away July 3, 2004 in Elmore City, OK. “Ab” retired as State Administrative Officer. He is survived by his wife, Melba, four daughters, a son, 10 grandchildren, and 9 great-grandchildren.
William M. Watts passed away Saturday July 3, 2004. "Mack" retired as a Soil Conservation Technician at Mayfield, KY.
Thomas L. Abshure (83) passed away July 3, 2004 in Elmore City, OK. “Ab” retired as State Administrative Officer in December of 1975. He is survived by his wife, Melba, four daughters, a son, 10 grandchildren, and 9 great-grandchildren.
Roy Shyrock (79) passed away July 2, 2004. Roy retired as a Conservation Technician in PA. His wife, Mary Lou, survives him.
William E. Fallis (91) passed away July 1, 2004. He worked at the Louisville, KY field office at the time of his retirement.
James R. Lesley (80) passed away (July 2004) about a month ago in Lower Burrell, PA. Jim retired as Asst. State Conservationist, PA in Dec 1980. Jim is survived by his wife, Betty.
Crawford Jones from Jackson, Ohio passed away (reported 7/04).
Raymond Rader from Baltimore, Ohio passed away (reported 7/04).
Charles Reinhart from Bellfontaine, Ohio passed away (reported 7/04).
Martha Lee passed away June 23, 2004. Martha was the wife of Tillman Lee. Tillman retired as an Area Conservationist at Columbia, TN.
Senior Conservationist Manford A. Logan (89) passed away June 7, 2004. "Manny" retired after 35 years with SCS as a District Conservationist in Illinois. His wife, Drusilla, died in Jan. 1994. A son, daughter and grandchildren survive him. Memorials may go to the Jefferson County Heart Association in care of the Hughey Funeral Home, PO Box 721, Mt. Vernon, IL 62864.
Gordon Hansen (95) passed away during June, 2004. He was the Area Engineer in Richfield, UT when he retired.
Jesse Clemons passed away recently (reported 6/04). Jesse was a Soil Conservation Technician at Cathage, TN.
Dale Ferguson passed away recently (reported 6/04). Dale was a District Conservationist at Selmer, TN.
James B. McAdams passed away recently (reported 6/04). James was a District Conservationist at Brownsville, TN.
Senior Conservationist Richard V. Rosenow (85) passed away May 31, 2004. Richard spent his entire career in Kansas. He retired as a District Conservationist in Oct. 1980. His wife, Norma and a son and a daughter survive him.
T. K. Lybeck (86) passed away May 28, 2004 in Devils Lake, ND. He is survived by 3 sons, a daughter, 8 grandchildren, and 7 great-grandchildren.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Herbert J. Muse passed away May 28, 2004. Herbert retired from SCS in 1975 as a District Conservationist in Ohio.
Wallis R. Tonsfeldt of Spirit Lake, IA passed away May 21, 2004. Wally retired at Sioux City, IA in 1984 where he had been the Area Conservationist. He is survived by his wife, Deloris.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist R. D. Anderson (93) passed away May 20, 2004. He retired in July 1975 as Assistant State Conservationist in Colorado.
Senior Conservationist Maynard Scilley passed away May 19, 2004 in Laguna Hills, CA at the age of 84. Maynard was a long time SCS soil scientist and past State Soil Scientist in MN.
Robert "Bob" Best (79) passed away suddenly May 18, 2004 at Hannibal, MO when he was visiting his son. Bob was the Area Conservationist at Hannibal and Warrensburg, MO and was involved in organizing several Soil and Water Conservation Districts in both areas.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Herbert L. Davenport (92) passed away May 17, 2004. Herb served as an Area Engineer at several locations in Illinois prior to his retirement in July 1976.
Owen Lee remembers Herb: "Herb was the Area Engineer in Carbondale, Illinois, and my first supervisor after graduating from the U of I in 1964. He had me help with a soil boring for a watershed structure that he was investigating. We drilled and drilled - put extension after extension on the auger and only stopped when the hole filled with wet material as fast as we pulled it out. We ended at about 25 feet deep.
I did an investigation on a farm pond that was going to have a thirty foot fill, and needed State Geologist, Lou Pierard's approval. As Herb, Lou, and I drove to the site, Lou looked at my request and saw 3 soil borings. The one at the bottom of the creek was zero feet deep (solid rock), and the ones on each embankment were 6 inches deep. Lou asked why so shallow, and I replied there was a hard layer at that point. I know Herb was thinking why didn't I go back out there with Owen and get a repectable soil boring. Then Lou said "I'll show you how to get through that hard layer" An hour later, Lou ended with a 6 inch soil boring too. Herb and I took big sighs of relief. Herb worked very hard, was very detailed and thorough. He was a patient and wonderful supervisor."
Senior Conservationist Martin M. Gordon (91) passed away May 17, 2004. Martin retired as a District Conservationist in Maryland on Jan. 29, 1977. His wife, Thelma, survives.
Richard L Hager passed away May 15, 2004. Richard retired as Assistant State Conservationist in Kansas on Jan. 2, 2004. He had been diagnosed with two brain tumors in April 2004. His wife, Judy, and 2 sons, John and Thane survive him. Judy’s address is 314 Laura, Salina, KS 67401. Memorials may go to the Christ Cathedral Church, American Cancer Society, or Boy Scouts of America.
Senior Conservationist Thomas E. Doughty (93) passed away May 14, 2004 in Sheridan, WY. Tom was the first Soil Conservationist hired by SCS in Wyoming. He was Area Conservationist in Jackson, WY for many years prior to his retirement in July 1964. His wife of 62 years, Maxine, died in 1996. He is survived by 3 sons, a daughter, and numerous grandchildren(including 8 great-great grandchildren).
Frank W. Glover (85) passed away May 10, 2004. Frank retired as State Resource Conservationist, Morgantown, WV. He had received many honors in his career, most notably the USDA's Superior Service Award in 1979, and was inducted into the West Virginia Agricultural and Forestry Hall of Fame in 1987. His wife, Maxine, survives.
Jeanette Gregg passed away on May 8, 2004. She was the wife of Calvin Gregg who retired in 1987 as the District Conservationist in Coquille, OR.
Senior Conservationist LeRoy M. Bingham (88) passed away May 5, 2004 in Auburn, ME. Bing served as District Conservationist in the Androscoggin/Sagadahoc Soil Conservation District for several years.
Donna Miles passed away recently (May 2004). Donna was the wife of Larry Miles. Larry was an engineer in the Kansas State Office at the time of his retirement in January 1997.
Senior Conservationist Clarence B. Breinig (91) passed away some time before May of 2004. Clarence retired in April 1973 as the State Soil Scientist for Tennessee.
Senior Conservationist Addie S. Harvey (87) passed away some time before May of 2004. Addie retired in March 1971 as a District Conservationist in Tennessee.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Dr. Joseph J. Pierre (93) passed away April 29, 2004. Joe worked for SCS in Wisconsin, Indiana, Missouri and Illinois as a Plant Material Specialist and then as the Resource Conservationist in Illinois. He spent the last 11 years of his career as the Regional Agronomist for the Midwest. He retired in Jan. 1967. Joe received numerous awards and was a charter member of SWCS. His wife, Odile, survives as well as their 8 children, 26 grandchildren, and 32 great grand children.
Patrick Kennedy (84) passed away April 24, 2004. Pat was a Soil Conservationist in the St. James, MN office for 30 years.
Thomas Curtis Sweetser Jr (77) passed away April 22, 2004. Tom served as the RC&D Coordinator/ Extension Agent in the Down East Resources Conservation and Development Area in Hancock and Washington Counties, Maine for several years prior to his retirement.
Aaron Clement passed away April 22, 2004. Aaron spent many years as a Soil Scientist working in the west part of Tennessee.
Helen Peterson passed away April 20, 2004. Helen was the wife of Irv Peterson former State Agronomist for Nebraska. Irv passed away quite some time ago.
Joseph Robert Adair, Jr. (94) of Laurens, SC passed away April 19, 2004. He retired from SCS in 1965 with 33 years of service.
William H Dempsey passed away April 11, 2004. Bill retired as a District Conservationist in Kentucky. His wife had passed away earlier.
Donald G. Burbank (81) passed away April 10, 2004. Don retired Sept. 30, 1980 as the State Conservationist for New Hampshire. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, sailing, gardening and carpentry. His wife, Dorothy, their 5 children and 12 grandchildren survive. The family suggests that memorials may go to Seacoast Hospice, 10 Hampton Rd., Exeter, NH 03837
Clarence J. Treumer (82) passed away April 9, 2004. Clarence ("Parse") retired in July 1977 as an Assistant State Conservationist in Virginia. He had been suffering with Parkinson’s for several years. His wife, Theresa, survives him.
Janet Cowles passed away April 9, 2004. Her husband, Donald, retired from SCS as a Soil Scientist in July 1975. Don and Janet wintered in AZ and spent their summers in Auburn, WA. Don has sold the AZ residence and will live in the Auburn home.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Louis W. Ilgen (91) passed away April 4, 2004. Louis retired as a Soil Scientist in Conn. during May 1971. His wife, Emily, and 4 children survive. Memorials may go to the Rockville, CN Lutheran Church.
Marion Jacobson (97) passed away at her home on April 1, 2004. Marion was the wife of Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Paul Jacobson. Paul retired from SCS as State Conservation Engineer in Iowa. He then spent a number of years with Harza Engineering. Paul and their 4 children survive. Memorials may go to the Sandpoint United Methodist Church, 711 Main Street, Sandpoint, ID 83864.
Clarion J. Neseth (63) passed away March 31, 2004 at his home in Perham, MN. Clarion retired as a Soil Scientist after 35 years with SCS. His wife, Rose, 2 sons and several grandchildren and great grandchildren survive him.
Judy Throckmorton (64) passed away March 30. 2004. Judy was the wife of Bill Throckmorton, 7113 Southeast Grindstone Road, Cameron, MO 64429. Bill retired in 1994 as the Soil Conservationist at Maysville, MO.
Senior Conservationist Arthur M. Martin (84) passed away March 28, 2004. He retired as the State Administrative Officer in S. Carolina in August 1974. His wife, Frances, survives.
Ralph Joseph McCracken (82) passed away Thursday, March 11, 2004, in Greensboro, NC. He was born in Cuba and grew up there and in Fairmount, IN. He was a farmer, rose gardener, soil scientist, professor, author, administrator, Boy Scout leader, Rotary Club president, religious fellowship teacher, president of the Soil Science Society of America and man of quiet faith. A lover of brass choirs and bluegrass, he was a friend to all children and dogs.
He is survived by his wife, Virginia Johnson McCracken, of Greensboro; son Douglas of Lugoff, S.C.; daughter Ellen (Nell) of Greensboro; granddaughters, Cille and Dixie; and nieces and nephews.
Friends who wish may send memorials to New Garden Friends Meeting, 801 New Garden Ro! ad, Greensboro, NC 27410; or to the general scholarship fund of the N.C. State University Foundation, c / o Joan DeBruin, Campus Box 7501, Raleigh, NC 27695.
Jane Purdy passed away in Austin, Texas in March of 2005. Jane worked as a secretary in the Austin Area Office for many years. She was a well known and respected employee.
Alice Morrow passed away on March 7, 2004. Her husband Wilson “Robb” Morrow retired as a Conservation Technician at Vinton, IA in Aug. 1990.
Hubert Cook (64) passed away March 6, 2004 of colon cancer. Hubert retired after 37 years of service with most of his career on the river basin planning staff in the Missouri state office as an engineering technician. He is survived by his wife, Lu Cook, 13351 N. Patton Road, Harrisburg, MO 65256.
Gerald "Jerry" Thayer (78) passed away on March 5, 2004 in Great Falls, MT. He retired from SCS in Nov. 1987.
Donald E. Sloan, 81 of Clearwater, Florida passed away on March 2, 2004. He formerly lived in Grantsburg, Indiana and was a native of English Indiana.
Mr. Sloan was retired from the USDA Soil Conservation Service in the late 1970’s. Other than a short training period in Corydon, Indiana, Don spent his entire career as the District Conservationist in English (Crawford County), Indiana where he and the local District Supervisors and the local Extension Agent developed a soil conservation and rural development program that was the envy of many. But through it all Don was always in the background teaching, encouraging and giving others the credit. During his thirty-year tenure in the county the gully ravaged hillsides turned green with trees, pastures and contoured row crops set off by farm ponds, grassed waterways and spring developments. The Lincoln Hills Resource Conservation and Development (the first in the nation) was one product of his and other local leaders farsightedness.
Although he was asked to move to more responsible positions of leadership, he always said his job was to help care for the hills of Crawford County.
Another of his unassuming accomplishments was that many conservationists of today passed though his office as trainees and all became members of the Soil and Water Conservation Society through his gentle leadership. At least five or six are very active members of the Hoosier Chapter today.
His wife, Aledia, niece Rita Wolfinger and nephew David Sloan survive him. He was a member of the Grantsburg Community Church, the First Christian Church in Clearwater, the Masonic Lodge and was a forestry graduate of Purdue University.
Senior Conservationist Magnus Gilbertson (88) passed away March 1, 2004. Magnus was a Conservation Technician when he retired in Dec. 1977. His wife, Arlene, survives.
Earl R. West (83) passed away in early March 2004. Earl retired as a District Conservationist in Tennessee on Aug. 3, 1986. Earl’s wife, Carlee, survives.
Senior Conservationist John Clifford (83) passed away in late February 2004. John retired as a District Conservationist in Kentucky in June 1977. His wife, Virginia, survives.
Gerald (Jerry) Walker passed away February 26, 2004. Jerry retired as a civil engineering technician on the IA State Office Planning Staff in the early 1980's.
Garnett Hanchett (83) passed away February 22, 2004. Garnett was the wife of Gene Hanchett. Gene retired as a Soil Conservationist in NY in May 1985. Gene served as the ARSCSE State Representative for a number of years.
Senior Conservationist Ralph Schwartz (97) passed away February 21, 2004 in Abilene, Texas. Ralph was was a legendary conservationist and soil scientist in Texas. He retired from the SCS in 1965 , but continued his “career” until 1992, serving as Executive Director of the Middle Clear Fork Soil and Water Conservation District. He was a graduate of Ohio State University and started his career in the CCC days and served on the historic Dust Bowl Survey. He also served in World War II as an administrative officer in the Army Air Corps. A memorial service was held at the First Central Presbyterian Church in Abilene, and burial was in the Bryan Cemetery in Bryan, Texas. He is survived by a daughter, two granddaughters and a grandson.
Harry Wegeleben (85) passed away on February 19, 2004 in Yakima, WA. After being discharged from military service in 1945, he completed college and started working with the SCS as a Range Conservationist. Harry worked with ranchers in Kittitas, Yakima, Benton, Klickitat, Franklin, and Walla Walla counties and in the WA State Office, retiring in 1979. Harry is survived by his wife of 60 years, Ruth, and 3 sons.
Retha Scarborough passed away February 18, 2004 after a short hospital stay. She was the wife of Senior Conservationist N. D. Scarborough who retired as an Engineer in Louisiana in June 1975.
Patricia Sullivan Seidel (42) passed away February 11, 2004. Patti was the daughter of Gene and Carrie Sullivan. Gene retired as a State Conservationist and was the Deputy State Conservationist in California. Gene and Carrie Sullivan's address is: 1709 Circledale Rd., N. Little Rock, AR 72119.
Joel A. Wentz (77) passed away February 10, 2004. Joel retired in June 1984 as the Assistant State Conservationist in Kansas. He served as an engineer in Kansas prior to becoming an Asst. State Cons. Joel served as the Kansas ARSCSE State Representative for a number of years. His wife, Betty, and their 2 daughters survive. The family has suggested that memorials go to Salina Hospice or to the Key Presbyterian Church, Salina, KS.
Duane Bosworth (76) passed away February 6, 2004. Duane retired as the Public Information Specialist for the West NTC. Prior to that he was Head, Education and Publication Unit in the National Office. His wife, Sue, 2 sons and grandchildren and great grand children survive Duane. The family has suggested that memorials may go to the Parkinson's Center of Oregon at Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd., Portland, OR 97239-3098.
Senior Conservationist John "Jack" Selby (85) passed away February 5, 2004. Jack was a RC&D Coordinator at the time of his retirement in April 1994. He had over 50 years of Federal Service. He was with the Corps of Engineers prior to joining SCS. He was a member of ASAE for over 50 years.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Charles M. Livingston (91) passed away February 4, 2004. Charles retired as a District Conservationist in Wisconsin on June 30, 1974. Charles was very active in his home area and was involved in many organizations and societies. His wife for 64 years, Letha, daughter, daughter-in-law and grandchildren, survives.
Senior Conservationist Jim Kincannon (87) passed away February 1, 2004. Jim was the Director of Policy Analysis in the Watershed Division, National Office, at the time of his retirement in Dec. 1977. Jim will always be remembered for his assistance to many in the field as well as those who worked with him in the National Office. Jim’s daughters, Sandra and Katherine and numerous grand and great grand children survive. Memorials may go to the Franconia United Methodist Church, 6037 Franconia Rd. Alexandria, VA 22310.
Clyde Yates passed away in his sleep February 1, 2004. Clyde was still working as a Soil Conservation Technician in the Oak Grove Field Office in Oak Grove, LA. He had just reached retirement eligibility.
James Christenson passed away recently (Jan 2004). Jim has been retired for a number of years. Prior to his retirement he was in the New Hampshire State Office in the B&F Section.
Herman W. Parker passed away recently (Jan 2004). Herman was the District Conservationist at Exeter, NH at the time of his retirement a number of years ago.
Norris D. Braley (69) passed away Friday, January 30, 2004, following an ongoing struggle with cardiac illness. He was born Oct. 22, 1934, in Mapleton, and received a diploma from the University of Maine, at Orono. He was employed for more than 30 years by the USDA Soil Conservation Service, serving in offices at Presque Isle, Belfast, Houlton, Rockland and Waldoboro. He is survived by his wife Janet, three sons, a daughter, and 16 grandchildren.
Sue Helzer (59) passed away January 29, 2004. Sue was the wife of Norman Helzer. Norman retired in Jan. 1996. Norm served for several years as the ARSCSE State Representative for Nebraska. He and their 2 children survive. Memorials may go to the Nature Conservancy of Nebraska, PEO Home, or 2nd Church of Christ Scientist.
Ed Weaver (79) passed away January 24, 2004. Ed was the DC at Bloomsburg, Columbia County, PA from 1964 until his retirement.
Senior Conservationist Francis M. (F.M) Puryear (94) of Lillington, NC, passed away January 23, 2004. F. M. worked in Harnett County as Soil conservation Technician for many years. His wife of 46 years, Emily Stephens Puryear and also his second wife, Lizzie Smith Puryear, preceded him in death.
Y. E. McAdams, Jr. passed away January 22, 2004. Y.E. was a Civil Engineering graduate from Texas A&M University and retired as an Area Engineer from Lubbock, Texas with 30 years service with the SCS. He served in World War II in the European Theater and received the Purple Heart and Bronze Star Medals along with four Campaign Stars. His wife and several nieces and nephews survive him. Graveside services were held at Resthaven Memorial Park in Lubbock.
Kathryn Elaine Newcombe (67) passed away Thursday, January 22, 2004 at Fair Oaks Hospital. Kathy was the wife of Paul Newcombe who retired as Director of the Finance Division, SCS, in Dec. 1989. Paul and their two sons, Keith and Dean survive. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice in memory of Kathryn.
Dave Schulz passed away January 16, 2004. Dave retired as the District Conservationist at Oconto, WI. Cards and memorials may go to the Schulz family at 1700 Superior Ave., Oconto, WI 54153.
Norman Lister (68) passed away January 14, 2004. Norman retired in Dec. 1997 as a Hydraulic Engineer in Arkansas. His wife, Estella, survives.
John Millar passed away January 12, 2004. John retired as the District Conservationist at Tiffin, OH.
Daniel A. Lindquist (71) passed away January 11, 2004. Dan worked for the SCS as an engineer in Shenandoah and Des Moines, IA and in Ohio. He spent approximately 25 years as an engineer with the IA Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship/Soil Conservation Division in Des Moines prior to his retirement. Burial was in Funk, NE. He is survived by his wife, Phyllis and several children.
Senior Conservationist John Gibson (89) passed away January 4, 2004. John retired as Asst. State Conservationist in Maryland during June 1974. "Hoot" was well known for his hard work and ever-present sense of humor. He started his Federal Career with the CCC's. Memorials may go to SWCS, Dayton Hospice Inc., 324 Wilmington Ave, Dayton, Ohio 45420. Condolences may also go to his daughter, Nancy Clayton, 428 North Street, Easton, OH 45320.
Neil Bogner says "Hoot was a special friend of mine! At one time he worked in MO and we got acquainted because of mutual friends. He was someone special".
Mark Spray passed away January 4, 2004. Mark retired as District Conservationist at McConnelsville, OH. Mark was an outstanding photographer.
Senior Conservationist Henry Kelly (91) passed away January 2, 2004. Henry retired in May 1977 as the Asst. State Administrative Officer in Ohio. He is survived by his wife, Eileen Kelly, at 3682 Wellesly Dr, #108, Carrol, OH 43112. Memorials may go to the Salvation Army.
Francis P. Anderson of Illinois passed away. - reported Aug 2004
Harry Heising of Illinois passed away. - reported Aug 2004
Loren Morley of Illinois passed away. - reported Aug 2004
Hugo Richman of Illinois passed away. - reported Aug 2004
Frank Seibolt of Illinois passed away. - reported Aug 2004
Elmer R. Carter of Illinois passed away. - reported Aug 2004
Paul Affolter of Illinois passed away. - reported Aug 2004
Obert Anderson of Illinois passed away. - reported Aug 2004
Ken Fooks of Illinois passed away. - reported Aug 2004
Herb Hanapel of Illinois passed away. - reported Aug 2004
Ray Lane of Illinois passed away. - reported Aug 2004
Frederick Boss, Muskogee, OK passed away. - reported May 2004
Edgar McVicker, Burneyville, OK passed away. - reported May 2004
Gladys Panter, Pryor, OK passed away. - reported May 2004
Wayne Force, Perry, OK passed away. - reported May 2004
Senior Conservationist Addie S. Harvey (87) passed away some time ago. Addie retired in March 1971 as a district Conservationist in Tennessee.
Senior Conservationist Clarence B. Breinig (91) passed away some time ago. Clarence retired in April 1973 as the State Soil Scientist for Tennessee.
Crawford Jones passing was recently reported. He was from Jackson, OH.
Raymond D. Rader's passing was recently reported. He was from Baltimore, OH.
Jesse Clemons’ passing was recently reported. Jesse was a Soil Conservation Technician at Carthage, TN.
Dale Ferguson’s passing was recently reported. Dale was a District Conservationist at Selmer, TN.
James B. McAdams passing was recently reported. James was a District Conservationist at Brownsville, TN.
John & Mary Hooker both passed away sometime in 2003. John was District Conservationist at Medina, OH at the time of his retirement.
Marlyn (Son) Hester of Alabama passed away (2004).
Robert Waters of Alabama passed away (2004).
Charlie Harper of Alabama passed away (2004).
Jerry Johnson of Alabama passed away (2004).
Sam Richbourg of Alabama passed away (2004).
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Clarence D. Brehm (96) passed away recently (2003). Clarence retired in April 1968 as State Conservation Engineer in South Dakota. He was the first person named State Engineer in South Dakota. He has spent the last number of years in Mesa, AZ.
Arthur Smith from KY passed away recently (2003).
Frank Rhorer from KY passed away recently (2003).
Charles Loyal from KY passed away recently (2003).
Charles V. McDaniel from KY passed away recently (2003).
J. Alton (Dan) Daniels passed away recently (2003). He was a long time AC in Nashville, AR.
Henry Converse of Paducah, KY passed away recently (2003). He was a retired Soil Scientist.
Herman McDonald of Lexington, KY passed away recently (2003). He was a retired Soil Scientist.
J. Edward Curl of Macomb, IL passed away recently (2003).
Edna Wallace of Edwardsville, IL passed away recently (2003). Her husband is Donald L. Wallace.
Andy Anderson of IL passed away recently (2003).
Leroy Reeder of IL passed away recently (2003).
Theresa Gallivan of IL passed away recently (2003).
John Conroy of IL passed away recently (2003).
Vernia Shaffer’s husband, Butch passed away recently (2003).
Willard Lovan of KY passed away recently (2003).
Oliver McWhorter of KY passed away recently (2003).
George Williams of KY passed away recently (2003).
Boyd Champion of KY passed away recently (2003).
Emmett Ellington (85) was State Administrative Officer in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Statesman Homer Taff (86) passed away. Homer retired from SCS in June 1973. At the time of his retirement he was Assistant Director of SNTC. Prior to that he served as State Conservationist in Kentucky.
Senior Conservationist Clayton Brower (84) passed away December 31, 2003. Clayton retired in Dec. 1974 as an Engineer in Ohio. His wife, Tempest, survives.
A.J. Roy passed away December 28, 2003. A.J. was a Soil Scientist in the Jennings LA Field Office. He retired Jan. 3, 1984.
Albert Daniels (79) of Fuquay Varina, formerly of Wilson, NC, passed away December 27, 2003. Albert served in the US Coast Guard during World War II and farmed for several years before beginning his career with the SCS in 1954. Albert spent his entire career in Wilson County where he retired in 1984 as a Soil Conservation Technician. He is survived by his wife, Glenna.
Senior Conservationist Herbert "Herb" Queen(90) passed away December 20, 2003. Herb retired in Sept. 1970 as a Soil Conservation Technician in Gove County, Kansas.
Joseph Bornstein (82) passed away December 20, 2003. Joe started his career with SCS and ended it in with ARS. He was an Agricultural Engineer and was active in ASAE.
Robert L. Gray passed away December 18, 2003. Bob retired as the State Conservation Engineer in Oklahoma. His wife, Jo, survives. Her address is Rt 1 Box 95N, Bluffton, TX 78607.
Philip M. Glick (98) passed away December 17, 2003. Mr. Glick was Chief, Land Policy Division, USDA between 1933 and 1942. He was the primary author of the "Standard State Soil Conservation District Law." He later was the legal advisor of the Federal Water Resources Council. He retired in 1973.
Senior Conservationist E. J. Hughes (91) passed away December 16, 2003 in Brownwood, Texas. E.J. came to work for the Soil Erosion Service in 1935, and held numerous positions in Texas, retiring as Area Conservationist at Brownwood in 1971. He graduated from Texas A&M University in 1934 with a degree in Agricultural Science. He served under General Patton in World War II and received the Purple Heart and numerous campaign ribbons. Memorial services were held on December 19 at the First United Methodist Church in Brownwood. He is survived by his wife, a brother and a sister.
Larry Lewis, NRCS Grassland Conservationist in the Lebanon, MO Field Office passed away December 12, 2003. Larry had 32 years of service and is survived by his wife Nancy Lewis, Route 3, Box 3450, Camdenton, MO.
Ott Ediger (90) passed away December 7, 2003 in Austin, Texas. He retired as District Conservationist at Sinton Texas. Services were at the First United Methodist Church in Sinton on December 13. His career spanned 35 years with the SCS in Texas and he also served in the military in World War II. He was a graduate of Oklahoma A&M (now Oklahoma State University) with a degree in agronomy. Survivors include his wife of 58 years, a son and a daughter.
Avis Fox passed away December 5, 2003. Avis was the wife of Roy Fox, retired State Conservation Engineer in Oregon. She is survived by Roy, three daughters, a son, nine grandchildren and one great grandson.
Virginia Ledvina passed away December 4, 2003. Condolences may be sent to Louie at his daughter Nancy’s address: 5302 Wonder Drive, Fort Worth, TX 76133.
Honorary Member and Senior Conservationist Sedley M. Lingo (97) passed away December 3, 2003. Mr. Lingo retired in 1969 as an Assistant State Administrative Officer in South Dakota. Earlier he had worked in the Lincoln, NE Regional Office. His wife, Mildred, passed away in 1981. Surviving are a son, David, 2 grandsons, and 2 great grandsons. David P. Lingo’s, address is 8225 38th Ave. N, New Hope, MN 55427.
Robert Slota (80) passed away December 1, 2003. Bob retired from SCS in 1976 as a Soil Scientist. Condolences can be sent to his wife, Dorothy, at 608 East First St., Baraboo, WI 53913.
Elizabeth Sanders of Clinton, MO passed away in early December 2003. Elizabeth was the widow of Charley Sanders, District Conservationist of Johnson County, MO for many years.
Thelma Evelyn Carper (75) passed away November 29, 2003. Thelma worked for SCS as a secretary and editor. She retired from the WNTC. Survivors include five sisters and two brothers.
John W. Garrett, who once lived in Quaker City, OH, passed away November 26, 2003 in Jacksonville, FL. John is survived by his wife, Coralee, 13890 Intracoastal Sound Dr., Jacksonville, FL 32224-1195.
Ronnie m. Rush (59) passed away November 23, 2003 in Tompkinsville, KY. Ronnie retired in Jan. 2001 as an Area Conservationist in Kentucky. He died as a result of prostrate cancer. He is survived by his wife, Betsy.
Senior Conservationist William M. Johnson (87) passed away November 19, 2003. Bill retired in Nov. 1980 as Deputy Chief. He was a soil scientist and served as the Principal Soil Correlator for the Western States prior to going to the National Office. Prior to being named Deputy Chief he was the Director of the Soil Survey Division. Bill was an aerial observer and meteorologist in the Navy in WW II. Survivors include his wife, Carol, two daughters, three grandchildren, and two great grandchildren.
Thad E. Giles (82) of Davis, formerly of Raleigh, NC, passed away November 15, 2003. Thad was born in Polk County, NC and was reared in Spartanburg County, SC. His career with the SCS spanned 35 years as Financial Manger in the state office in Raleigh.
John E. "Jack" Paschke (84) a prominent soil classifier in northern Illinois and formerly of Kankakee, IL, passed away November 11, 2003 in Bonita Springs, FL.
Mr. Paschke earned a B.S. degree in Soils from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 1941. He was a veteran of WWII having served as a navigator with the US Army Air Corp in the South Pacific. After the war, Paschke began a long career with the USDA Soil Conservation Service. He authored numerous county soil reports for northern Illinois and assisted with soil classifications throughout Illinois and portions of Wisconsin, Iowa and Indiana. After 31 years of service with the SCS he became an independent soil classifier and worked to develop guidelines and soil ratings for municipal, county, state and federal agencies. He was an active advocate for soil and natural resource conservation in Illinois. Paschke was a founding member and past president of the Illinois Soil Classifiers Association and a long-time member of SSSA. After 20 years as an independent soil classifier, he retired to Bonita Springs, FL in 1995. Survivors include his wife of 60 years, Marguerite "Peg" Paschke of Bonita Springs, FL; sister Adeline Trudeau of Evansville, IN; three sons, Jack Paschke of Armonk, NY, Paul Paschke of Lakewood, CO, and Mark Paschke of Fort Collins, CO; five daughters, Mary Brand of Scottsdale, AZ, Jeanne Paschke of Frankfort, IL, Lucy Paschke of Estero, FL, Rita Paschke of Bloomington, IN, and Sara Parish of Durango, CO; as well as 16 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.
Roy L. Hauger (92) passed away in Rosenberg, TX, on November 11, 2003. Roy was a retired Area Conservationist, having served some 40 years with the SCS in Texas. He began his career in 1935 in Alice, Texas where he met his wife Adele. He was a native of San Antonio and a 1933 graduate of Texas A&M University with a degree in civil engineering. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal by USDA in 1957. He held many positions in various professional organizations. He is survived by two sons and two daughters and several grandchildren. Services were held on Nov. 14, 2003 at St. Marks Episcopal Church in Rosenberg.
Edwin J. Core (91) passed away November 9, 2003 in Beaverton, OR. Ed retired as the Head, Engineering and Watershed Planning Unit, Portland, OR. He was a very special leader and an inspiration for young engineers and others that worked with him. His wife, Margaret, a son, a daughter, 5 grand children, and 3 great-grandchildren survive him. Memorials may go to -- Doernbecher Children's Hospital Foundation, 1121 S.W. Salmon Street, Portland, OR 97205.
Jerry Zimmerman of Maryville, MO passed away November 8, 2003 of lung cancer. Jerry recently retired as the Area Soil Scientist at Maryville. He is survived by his wife Jody Zimmerman, 1213 West Crestview Drive, Maryville, MO 64468.
William J. "Bill" Owen (77) passed away November 4, 2003. Bill was the Lincoln NTC Hydrologist at the time of his retirement. He had 38 years with SCS. Survivors are his wife, Mary Lou, 4 daughters and a son. Mary Lou's address is 1143 Mulder Dr., Lincoln, NE 68510. Memorials may go to the Christ Lutheran Caregiving and Missions Ministry, 4325 Sumner St., Lincoln, NE 68506.
Senior Conservationist Lester L. Gordon (96) passed away November 2, 2003. Lester took a medical retirement from the State Office in Temple, TX in 1962. His wife, Leah, one son and two sisters survive him. Leah's address is 219 Nelson St., Nacogdoches, TX 75961.
Leland Jackson (75) passed away November 1, 2003. "Lee" spent his career with SCS in Nebraska. He started as a project engineer moved on to State Construction Engineer and ended his career as State Conservation Engineer. He retired in Sept. 1983. He was a veteran of the Korean War, and served 20 years in the Army and Army Reserve and retired as a lieutenant colonal.
His wife, Betty, survives as does his two daughters. Memorials to the family will be used for scholarships.
Otho L. LeBlanc passed away in early November 2003. Otho was the District Conservationist in Thibodaux, LA when he retired.
Senior Conservationist Lincoln Gallacher (84) passed away October 21, 2003. Linc had been fighting health problems for several months. He retired as Director, Administrative Services in Jan. 1982. Linc was a life member of ARSCSE. He was the Secretary-Treasurer for over 17 years. In 1998, he was the recipient of ARSCSE's Distinguished Service Award. His wife Esther survives him.
Neil Bogner reflects "This is one of the saddest reports that I have ever sent.... It is with a heavy heart that I am reporting that Lincoln “Linc” Gallacher passed away this morning(10/21/03). His work involved him in all aspects of SCS. Linc touched the lives of many SCS’ers and all benefited. One activity that he always had special liking for was dealing with those involved in construction and contracting. He spent uncounted hours teaching at training sessions for engineers and inspectors. We all considered him one of the best instructors.
Shortly after retiring he became the Secretary-Treasurer for ARSCSE. His support and guidance led to ARSCSE becoming fiscally sound and reached its highest number of members."
Tony Vrana remembers "Linc was truly a great guy. Everyone liked Linc and I never ever heard anyone say a bad thing about him. As a devout Mormon, he never drank but it didn't keep him from having a glass of water or something in his hand and participating in the frivolities. I recall of him telling of having had voice training that he might better call square dances and he occasionally used that mellow voice to amazed new, young employees."
Loraine Rallison passed away October 18, 2003, after a short illness. She was the wife of Bob Rallison. Bob retired from NHQ in 1984 as the National Hydrologist. They have seven children, 40 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren.
Bob's address is:
18749 SW Kemmer Rd.
Beaverton, OR 97007
Phone- 503/591-1807
Dexter Case (60) passed away October 12, 2003. Dexter retired from the Engineering Division on 1/2/99 as the National CADD Coordinator. His wife, Jeanne, survives. Her address is: 1202 Kentmorr Rd, Stevensville, MD 21666
Deloris W. Reed, wife of former Chief Pearlie S. Reed, passed away October 7, 2003. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Mr. Pearlie S. Reed
310 Flannery Lane
Silver Spring, MD 20904
Elsie Tinivell (79) passed away September 27, 2003. Elsie served as the secretary for the Head, Northeast NTC at the time of her retirement. Elsie's husband, John, passed away several years ago. John retired from the Upper Darby EWP Unit as a Planning Engineer.
Honorary Member Julian J. Turner (98) passed away September 17, 2002. Julian retired as the State Conservation Engineer in Arizona on Feb. 28, 1972. He was living with his son, Gary, at the time of his death.
Clayton L. Heiney passed away December 22, 2001. Clayton retired as the State Biologist in Pennsylvania.
Leon Silberberger (91) passed away December 21, 2001. Leon "Sil" retired as the State Conservation Engineer in TN. His wife, Verna, survives.
Honorary Member and Statesman Sanford Anderson (92) passed away December 20, 2001. Sanford retired in 1971 after a career in SCS as a Soil Scientist. His last duty station was in Tunisia. He is survived by his wife, Miriam.
Morgan David Kay passed away December 16, 2001 in Temple, Texas after a lengthy illness. Funeral services were in Ft Worth on December 18. Morgan spent his career with the Soil Conservation Service in Texas, retiring in 1993 as Head of the Texas Design Section. He graduated from Texas A & M University in 1951 with a degree in Agricultural Engineering. Morgan was highly respected among his peers and was known for his professionalism and his gentle disposition. He is survived by his wife Charlene of Temple, sons Morgan David Jr. of Ft. Worth, Douglas of Granbury, daughter Melinda Reeves of Ft. Worth and seven grandchildren.
Russell Mills passed away December 1, 2001. Russ retired in 1996 as Special Assistant to the Regional Conservator in Ft. Worth. Prior to that Russ was the State Conservationist in Missouri. He started his career in Ohio in 1957 as a Student Trainee. He fought a strong fight against lung cancer for the past 15 months. Memorials in his name may go to Missouri River Hospice, 3210 Bluff Creek Drive, Columbia, MO 65201 or to Special Olympics-Kirksville Area, 107 N 5th St., Moberly, MO 65270.
Honorary Member and Statesman Ramon L. Kent (93) passed away December 1, 2001. He retired in Feb. 1972 as the Resource Conservationist at Spokane, WA. He is survived by his wife, Mae, and 2 sons.
Edward A. Tompkins (77) passed away December 2001. Ed was the Assistant State Soil Scientist in Michigan at the time of his retirement in Jan. 1984. His wife, Patricia, a daughter, and 3 sons survive him.
Dr. Don Goss, Research Soil Scientist passed away November 30, 2001 in Temple, Texas. Dr. Goss retired from the SCS after 25 years of service and since 1991 has worked with the Blackland Research Center in Temple as a soil scientist in the area of computer modeling of soils information. He was a graduate of Texas Tech University and received his PhD from North Carolina State University. He is survived by his wife, Michele, three sons, one stepson and four grandchildren.
Charlie Thompson said "I was the Area Soil Scientist in San Benito, Texas in about 1961 when Don came on board as a student trainee. It was immediately obvious that Don was going to have a brilliant career, and he certainly did."
Statesman Charles A. Evans (90) passed away November 25, 2001. Charlie had been having serious health problems for the past year or so. He retired as State Conservationist in North Dakota in 1973. He started his career as an engineer.
Selden Dambrosky (83) passed away Thanksgiving evening, November 22nd. His youngest son, Gary, died 5 hours later (both of cancer). Selden retired after 34 years of government service and lived in Denver, CO. He is survived by his wife Marie, and his older son, and daughter.
Honorary Statesman Arthur W. Kowitz (91) passed away recently. Art retired in July 1970 as the State Conservation Engineer in Wisconsin. He was the first State Conservation Engineer for that state.
Statesman Kenneth M. Kent (87) passed away November 18, 2001 following a heart attack. Kenny retired in Jan. 1973 as head of the Lincoln EWP Unit. Prior to that he had served as the National Hydrologist.
Darrell Hickman (64) passed away November 7, 2001. Before retiring, he worked 33 years for SCS. He worked on a watershed planning staff and retired as Cartographer, preparing Soil Survey Publications of Oklahoma Counties.
Bob Zimmerman passed away November 2001 in Whitting, IA. Bob was a technician in western Iowa.
Tony S. Velarde passed away during October 2001. Tony attended New Mexico A&M and worked as a geologist in New Mexico with the Corp of Engineers and later with SCS. He retired in 1980.
Joseph H. Vaden (82) passed away October 26, 2001. Joe retired in Dec. 1975 after having served in several positions with SCS in Virginia including that of soil scientist, area conservationist and state agronomist. His wife, Helen, survives.
Marie Bordelon (78) passed away Oct 9, 2001. Marie came to SCS in August 1962 and retired in March 1986. Marie worked her whole career as a secretary in the Louisiana State Office.
Honorable Member and Statesman Albert B. Foster (95) passed away October, 2001. Al was the Head, Education and Publications when he retired from the SCS National Office in June 1970.
Warren Fairchild (74) passed away September 29, 2001. Warren began his career as a Soil Scientist and was also instrumental in organizing the Nebraska Resource Conservation Districts. He is interred at Fairbury, NE. His wife , Lois, a daughter, Julianne, a son, Warren, 3 grandchildren, and a sister survive him.
Francis Guernsey passed away September 21, 2001 in Bellingham, WA. Fran was the widow of Carl Guernsey, retired State Soil Scientist. Carl and Fran had served SCS in Indiana, Hawaii, Pennsylvania, and Arizona. A son Carl Scot of Tujunga, CA, survives. Fran was a teacher of students from seventh grade to college courses.
Harold F. Thatcher (94) passed away September 19, 2001 in Santa Fe, NM. He retired as an agronomist. His career with the government started in the CCC camps in Wyoming. After a couple years with the Dept. of Interior in Colorado he joined SCS in 1941. Two daughters, Gordy Maxine and Bobby Jayne survive him. He missed a trip to the Olympics in 1928 because he could not get sponsors to cover his travel costs. One of his most valued possessions was his Olympic certificate signed by Douglas MacArthur.
Statesman John Arno (88) passed away August 27, 2001 at his home in Dexter, ME. John was a Soil Scientist with SCS in Maryland, New York, and Maine until his retirement in 1976. He is survived by his wife, Imogene, of 57 years.
Joe (J.B.) Earl (83) passed away August 23, 2001. Joe retired as Louisiana State Conservationist. He worked in several locations in South Carolina before transferring to Louisiana in 1961 as ASTC. He was promoted to St. Con. in 1967 and retired in 1973. His wife, Flora, a daughter, Jane, a son, Jerry, 4 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren survive him.
Statesman Homer E. Stennett (90) passed away August 6, 2001 in Jamestown, NY. A graduate of Pennsylvania State University, class of 1934, Mr. Stennett taught vocational agriculture for three years and in 1937, began working for the USDA, Soil Conservation Service as a technician in the Civilian Conservation Corps. He served in the CCC camps for five years. For twenty years, Mr. Stennett was District Conservationist in Cattaraugus County, then held the same position in Chautauqua County. For three years he served as RC&D Coordinator for Seneca Trail RC&D Area, retiring in 1975. After his retirement, Mr. Stennett was active in volunteer work with WCA Hospital for 16 years, serving for three years in the Palliative Care and Hospice program. He was a master gardener and a member of the board of directors of the Chautaqua Adult Day Care Center for 10 years. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Shagla Stennett, a son, two daughters, four grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, a sister, two stepdaughters, a stepson, five step-grandchildren and five step-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Jean Bierkamper Stennett in 1979 and his second wife, Ruth Olson Stennett in 1995.
L. Dean Stratton (72) passed away October 8, 2001. Dean had bypass surgery on Oct. 1, but did not recover from complications that developed. Dean served for many years as the ARSCSE State Representative for North Dakota. He retired as Deputy State Conservationist of ND in Jan. 1986. His wife, Nina; son, Wayne; and daughter, Lisa survive. Memorials may be given to the McCabe United Methodist Church, 1030 N 6th St., Bismarck, ND; or to the American Heart Association.
Emil E. Kubalek (68) passed away September 26, 2001. Emil retired in Jan. 1987 as a District Conservationist in Illinois. His wife Geraldine survives.
Ivan Little (83) passed away September 12, 2001 in Stillwater, OK. Prior to retirement he worked as an Agronomist and Economist with a planning party. His wife, Luceil, and two daughters survive.
Jose "Andress" Esquipula Barela passed away during Sept 2001 in Albuquerque. Skip retired after 28 years with SCS and 27 years with the Algodones Water Association.
Joe Knecht passed away September 2001. Joe was a Soil Conservation Technician at Corning, IA who retired in 1973.
Gaylon Lane (64) passed away August 23, 2001. Gaylon was the State Soil Scientist in Texas when he retired in December 1994. He spent his career with SCS in Texas and was on the State Staff starting in 1977. His wife, Sarah, 2 daughters, and 5 grandchildren survive him.
Nan Brown (57) passed away August 14, 2001 after a long battle with cancer. Nan was the wife of Raymond N. Brown, Jr. who retired from the NENTC as Associate Director. Ray, three children and 2 grandchildren survive Nan. Memorial contributions may go to American Cancer Society, 11 Loomis St., Montpelier, VT 05602. Ray can be reached at 90 Sunset Ct. Shelburne, VT 05482
Robert E. Dwyer (75) passed away August 6, 2001. He was the first RC&D Coordinator for Sullivan Trail RC&D.
John Trach (75) passed away during the week of August 4, 2001. John was a Soil Scientist. He worked on the World Soil Map Project in the National Office before his retirement.
Bill Melstrom passed away July 31, 2001. Bill retired from SCS as the Director, Cartography and Remote Sensing in 1983. They moved to Greenwood, SC in the late 1980’s. His wife, Joanne, survives.
HONORARY STATESMAN Jack S. McCorkle (97) passed away on July 21, 2001. Jack was an Assistant State Conservationist at the time of his retirement in April 1965. He was one of the earliest Statesmen identified by Mel Cohee.
STATESMAN D. Harper Simms (88) passed away July 14, 2001. Harper retired as Director of Information Division in March 1968. In addition to his writings with SCS, he was also a noted writer on the American West. He was a member of the Outdoor Writers of America. His wife of 65 years, Effie, and their 2 daughters survive. Memorials may go to Meals on Wheels, PO Box 92614, Albuquerque, NM 87199.
Peg (Margaret) Hilliard passed away July 14, 2001. Peg was the wife of Bob Hilliard who retired as NY State Conservationist in 1980. In addition to Bob, survivors are their 2 sons, James and John, and 4 grandchildren. Memorials may go to the Fairmont Community Church, 4801 W. Genesee St. Syracuse, NY 13219.
Jack Roberts passed away July 8, 2001. Jack was in an auto accident on June 30th and was in critical condition in the hospital until his death. Jack retired as an Engineer Technician in Jackson Co., TN.
Jefferson Maddox passed away July 2001. He retired as a Soil Conservationist in Arkansas in December 1964.
STATESMAN Meril G. Carter (88) passed away June 26, 2001. Meril retired in January 1976. He had been an Area Conservationist at Uvalde and Austin, Texas.
Mary Reel was killed in a car accident on June 25, 2001 near Piper City, IL. Mary was the wife of Jim Reel (Jim retired as Watershed Party Leader in Iowa in April 1994). Mary’s mother, Elosie Ritchie, was also killed in the accident. Several cars and trucks were involved in the accident at a construction site. Jim was airlifted from the site to Carle Hospital in Urbana, IL. He was later transferred to Iowa Methodist Medical Center, Des Moines, IA, 50309. As of July 11, Jim was still in the hospital but is recovering.
HONORARY MEMBER and STATESMAN Dale R. Shockley (95) passed away June 22, 2001 in Peoria, AZ. Dale started his SCS career in January 1935, and resigned as Assistant Head, Program Appraisal and Internal Audit in June 1955. He served in numerous engineering positions in the west. Just prior to transferring to the National Office he served as Irrigation Engineer in the Albuquerque EWP Unit. After leaving SCS, he was with Morrison-Knudsen and International Engineering. He spent several years in Afghanistan. His twin brother, Dell, is also a STATESMAN, that worked as an irrigation engineer in the west. His wife, Wanda, also survives.
Wister M. Adair passed away June 10, 2001. Wis retired as an Area Engineer in 1982 and was very active with his business and farming.
Pauline Warren passed away June 7, 2001. Pauline was the wife of Statesman Robert Warren. Robert retired as a Soil Scientist at Denison, IA in Dec. 1971. Robert and Pauline were married for 59 years.
HONORARY MEMBER and STATESMAN Ralph O. Lewis (96) passed away May 31, 2001 in Peoria, AZ. Ralph retired in March 1972. In the early part of his career he was in charge of a CCC camp in Parsons, AZ. His career took him to Kansas, Lincoln, NE, and the National Office. He also worked for the State Department where he spent several years in assignments to Asia. His wife, Margaret, died in 1994.
Neville Curtis (77) passed away May 31, 2001. Neville was the Sedimentation Geologist in the WNTC at the time of his retirement in 1984. His wife, Marie, a son and a daughter survive.
Delores Blakley passed away May 21, 2001. She was the wife of Earl Blakley of Fort Worth, Texas.
Louise Cross passed away May 15, 2001. She served for many years as Area Clerk in Louisiana prior to her retirement on August 2, 1985.
STATESMAN I. Preston Isaacs (86) passed away May 9, 2001. Ike started his career in Annapolis Maryland as a Soil Conservation Technician. He held several administrative positions in Maryland before becoming State Administrative Officer there. He was also Administrative Officer in New Jersey and moved to Washington, DC where he retired as Chief of the Records And Communications Branch in 1976. Following his retirement, Ike served in a number of positions for the Anne Arundel Soil Conservation District in Maryland. I. Preston Issacs had a long and outstanding career with the Service, however he will be best remembered for the SCS employees he guided and nurtured through their career and educational goals. Many of the SCSers who passed through Maryland owe much of their career growth to this gentleman.
LaVerne Miller, wife of LeForrest Miller, passed away May 4, 2001. She had been battling pancreatic cancer. LeForrest retired in March 1986 as a Soil Scientist. In addition to LeForrest she is survived by a son and a daughter. A funeral for LaVerne will be held on Wednesday, May 9th, in Peoria, IL. The family requests that Memorials go to either the American Cancer Society or the American Diabetes Association.
D. L. Fontenot passed away April 27, 2001. “Doc” retired as the State Soil Scientist in Louisiana in 1961.
David Grimwood (81) passed away April 6, 2001. Dave retired as State Conservationist for Virginia in Jan. 1980. Prior to that he held the same position in Vermont.
Irving L. Martin (99) passed away March 30, 2001. He retired as a Soil Correlator in October 1965.
STATESMAN A. A. Klingebiel (90) passed away March 29, 2001. “Kling” retired as Director of Soil Interpretations in March of 1973. He was the second President of ARSCSE and was a very active participant, especially in the early years of the Association. His wife, Edith, and their children-Keith, Kenneth, John and Janice (Griffin), survives him.
Richard Paulson (62) passed away March 14, 2001. His death followed a long battle with cancer. Richard retired as Assistant State Soil Scientist in April 1994. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy.
Earl Cosby passed away March 10, 2001. Earl was State Conservationist in Georgia at the time of his death. Earlier in his career he held that same position in Wisconsin. He is survived by his wife, Vickie, and their family.
Joyce Brownfield passed away March 10, 2001. Joyce was the wife of Shelby Brownfield who retired in 1983 as State Soil Scientist in Idaho.
Darold C. McCrossen (77) passed away March 4, 2001. Darold retired from SCS in Aug. 1984 as the Assistant State Conservationist in New Mexico. His wife, Sherlee, survives.
Joseph Cummins (86) passed away March 2, 2001. Joe retired as a Soil Specialist in Minnesota. He spent nearly 37 years in SCS, including military time. Most of his career was in Minnesota. His wife, Edna, survives.
Jim Fruit passed away March 2, 2001. Jim worked in the Budget Branch in the National Office and in the Mississippi State Office. His wife, Betty, passed away in Oct. 2000.
Statesman Eugene N. Steeley (87) passed away Feb. 19, 2001. Gene retired as an Area Conservationist at Effingham, IL in Dec. 1976. He was one of the very early employees of the Soil Conservation Service. As a Soil Scientist he did extensive soil mapping in Illinois. His wife, Eleanor, and 3 children survive. Memorials may go to the Gene Steeley Agricultural Scholarship at the Centennial Bank in Cottage Grove, OR.
Freddy Cockrell passed away Feb. 22, 2001. He retired as Assistant State Conservationist in Kentucky in 1996. Earlier he held the positions of District Conservationist, Area Conservationist, and State Resource Conservationist in Kentucky. He also spent time with TVA. Memorials may go to the American Cancer Society.
William T. Rounds passed away Feb. 20, 2001. Bill was an Engineering Draftsman in the New York State Office. He retired in March of 2000 after over 20 years with SCS/NRCS.
Statesman Walter H. Wischmeier (90) passed away Feb. 10, 2001. He retired from ARS in 1976. Walt was with SCS in the early days before the research activities were transferred to ARS. His specialty was erosion research. This work led to the development of the Universal Soil Loss Equation which was published by USDA in 1958. He served as the leader of the ARS National Erosion Center at Purdue University from 1955 until 1975. In 1991 he was inducted into the ARS Science Hall of Fame. He was the recipient of numerous awards. He was a member of many professional societies including SWCS and American Society of Agricultural Engineers.
He is survived by his wife, Shelly and a son, Dennis. Memorials may go to St. James Lutheran Church, Lafayette, IN.
Louis Godbey passed away Feb. 8, 2001 after a lengthy illness. When Lou retired he was an Assistant State Conservationist in Tennessee. Much of his 37 year career was spent as a geologist in Kentucky, Indiana and Tennessee. He is survived by his wife, Klena, and sons Steven and Gary.
Edgar Neal Scott (70) passed away Feb. 6, 2001 of lung cancer. He was the State Administrative Officer in West Virginia when he retired in Sept. 1985. Memorials may be made to: Friends of Carolina’s Hospice, 1110 13th St., Port Royal, SC 29935. His wife, Verna, survives.
Mary Griggs, wife of Grady Griggs, passed away Feb. 4, 2001. Grady retired from SCS in March 1984. At the time of his retirement he was State Conservation Engineer in Delaware. When he retired they moved back to Tenn.
Melville H. "Mel" Cohee (91) passed away Jan. 14, 2001. Mel was born April 17, 1909, and was reared on a north central Indiana crop and livestock farm. He was a graduate of Frankfort, IN high school, and received BSA (1931) and MSA (1932) degrees in Agricultural Education and Economics from Purdue University. He worked on his PHD at the University of Wisconsin (Madison).
In 1933, he helped develop the first ever watershed soil erosion and flood control program for the Coon Creek Watershed, Coon Valley, Wisconsin. In 1936 he moved into the Soil Conservation Service, Washington, DC office in its Erosion Control Practices Division. In mid-1938 he traveled and researched past conservation laws, procedures and operations in seven central European countries to gain experiences about their governmental and land owners cooperative conservation endeavors for potential application in the US. After he retired from the Soil Conservation Service in Dec. 1965, he did consultant economics work with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. He was a senior economist consultant with FAO of United Nations. Mel is the author of about 50 technical publications and articles. He was active in professional civic organizations as a charter, lifetime, and fellow award status membership in the Soil and Water Conservation Society. He was a member of Issak Walton League of America. Mel was also a Mason, an honorary Kentucky Colonel, and member of First United Methodist Church, Madison. He is survived by two sons, Roger and Kent.
Memorials may go to the Viola G. Cohee Memorial Fund, SWCS, 7515 NE Ankeny Rd., Ankeny, OH 50021.
Arnold G. Davis (72) passed away on Jan. 12, 2001. Arnold retired in December 1983 as a dedicated Plant Materials Specialist in the Ft. Worth NTC. He was also a man with deep and abiding faith in God. Arnold’s wife, Suzanne, survives.
Jessie A. Simmons passed away January 2001. Jessie was the Contract Specialist in Louisiana at the time of his retirement on Jan. 2, 1987.
Lucille Phelan, wife of Jack Phelan, passed away December 27, 2000. Jack Phelan was the SCS Director of Engineering when he retired in 1974. She was interred in Arlington National Cemetary. Memorials may go to the building fund for St. Charles Church or to the Sister's of Charity BVM, 1100 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, Iowa 52003.
William H. Wood III passed away Dec. 24, 2000. Bill retired as a District Conservationist on April 16, 1994 at Shiprock Field Office, NM.
Statesman K. T. Lofton (87) passed away on Dec. 19, 2000. He retired in October 1968 after a career in SCS as a Soil Scientist. His wife, Frances, survives. Had he lived one week longer he and Frances would have been married 63 years.
Statesman William “Bill” Ratledge (86) passed away Tuesday Dec. 19, 2000. At the time of his retirement Bill was the State Conservationist in Delaware. After his retirement from SCS he became the Director, Division of Soil & Water Conservation. He served in this position under 3 governors. Bill completed his goal of visiting every continent by attending a wedding in Antarctica. In addition to loving to travel Bill was an avid photographer. Bill’s wife, Liz, passed away in 1992. Survivors include his son, Ed, daughter, Betsy, and granddaughters and great grandsons. Memorials may go to the University of Delaware.
Paul Anderson (86) passed away Dec. 16, 2000. He was a District Conservationist in Washington County, Maryland, and had a 41 YEAR CAREER with SCS.
Elena Qualmann passed away Dec. 8, 2000. She had been the Secretary to the Wisconsin State Conservationist.
James A. Igert (62) passed away Dec. 6, 2000. Jim retired as the RC&D Coordinator for the Southwest Missouri RC&D Project. He had also worked with SCS in Michigan.
Donald M. Baldwin passed away December 1, 2000 in Enterprise, OR. He retired in 1988 after 38 years with SCS.
Floyd W. Campbell (80) passed away Nov. 27, 2000 at his home in Strafford, VT. Floyd was the first SCS’er selected for the Harvard School of Public Administration. Floyd retired in 1973 as an assistant to the Administrator from the National Office. Earlier he had served on a special assignment from Secretary of Agriculture Freeman to review the US Forest Service. He was the State Conservationist in Maine 1960-1965. His wife, Kathleen, and their 6 children survive him. Memorials may go to Friends of Morrill Homestead, PO Box 98, Strafford, VT 05072.
Harold Scholl (82) passed away Nov. 25, 2000. Hal retired in August 1980 as the State Resource Conservationist in Maryland. He is buried in Arlington National Cemetery. His wife, Kay, and their children survive him. Memorials may go to the SWCS-Harold and Kay Scholl Excellence in Conservation Award.
Charles Keith Magee (81) passed away Nov. 23, 2000. Keith worked for several years as a District Conservationist in northwest Missouri before transferring to the Agency of International Development (AID). Most of his tours were in Africa.
V. Jay Allen (85) passed away Nov. 16, 2000. Jay retired as the State Conservation Engineer in Nevada. He was also the first State Engineer in Nevada.
George R. Rohrer (73) passed away Nov. 15, 2000. George retired in Jan. 1986 as a Soil Conservationist. During his career in SCS he served in 15 counties in Pennsylvania. His wife, Sarah, and 4 children survive. Memorials may go to First Presbyterian Church, 5 Court St., Towanda, PA 18848.
Fred Merrill (76) passed away Nov. 5, 2000 at his home. Fred retired from SCS as a Public Affairs Officer in Oct. 1980. His wife, Martha, and children, Amy and Lynn, survive. Memorials may go to Hospice, PO Box 1168, Stuart, FL 34995.
Guido Ernest Franki (93) passed away Nov. 4, 2000. He began his career with SCS in 1935 in Lindale Texas, and retired as Area Soil Scientist, Alice, Texas in 1971. Those that knew Guido will remember his colorful personality. He was a dedicated employee and a loyal Texas Aggie, graduating in 1930. He served 51 months in the Army Air Corp during World War II.
Betty Boilsen, wife of Axel, passed away on Oct. 26, 2000. Axel retired as Head, Design, in the Lincoln NTC.
Statesman David Sudduth (86) passed away Oct. 26, 2000 in Greeley, CO. David retired as a District Conservationist in July 1973. His wife, Jean, and their children survive him.
Frank Hoeft (73) passed away Oct. 24, 2000. Frank retired as the Assistant Head of Cartographic in Lincoln, NE in Feb. 1982. Earlier in his career he served in several engineering positions in Minnesota.
William G. (Bill) Johnson Jr. passed away on Oct. 22, 2000. He retired as Deputy State Conservationist in Arkansas.
Jay B. Weaver (81) passed away Oct. 19, 2000. Jay retired in Dec. 1978 as a Soil Scientist.
David Firor passed away on Oct. 18, 2000. David was with NACD and was well known to many SCS’er. Also, his wife, Edna, was first married to Charles Bartlett, former State Conservationist in Georgia. Memorials may go to the John William Firor Scholarship Fund at the Agricultute Alumni Association, Four Towers, The Univ. of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602. [This scholorship honors David’s father.]
Louise Gibson, wife of John “Hoot” Gibson passed away on September 30, 2000. John retired as Assistant State Conservationist in 1974.
George L. Green (69) passed away on September 26, 2000. After 30 years with SCS, George retired in 1988 as Assistant State Soil Scientist in Oregon. He served in the US Army during the Korean War.
William E. Crabtree (77) passed away on September 18, 2000. Bill retired after 30 years of service as the State Design Engineer in Tennessee. He earlier had worked in Texas.
Don Gillespie (74) passed away on Sept. 7, 2000. Don had been in a battle with cancer. He retired as Resource Conservationist in Colorado in January 1990.
LaVern M. Feusner (76) passed away September 2, 2000. Lavern retired in Jan. 1983 as the State Agronomist in Ohio after 30 years of service. He was a WWII veteran from the U.S. Army.
Mary Lou Gertsch, wife of Marion Gertsch, passed away in Sept. 2000. Marion retired as an Engineering Technician in Dec. 1989.
Robert Hollins passed away August 31, 2000. He lived and worked in Moville. He had retired in 1972.
Don McArthur passed away August 16, 2000. Don retired as State Conservationists in Delaware. He started his career in New York, was Assistant State Conservationists in Michigan and Connecticut. He was State Conservationist in Rhode Island and Delaware. He also served as State Representative for ARSCSE for New York for a number of years.
Warren D. Bennett (84) passed away August 13, 2000. Warren was an Area Engineer in CA prior to his retirement in April 1973.
Ed Hughes passed away August 7, 2000. Ed spent his career in Missouri as a soil scientist.
Ed Wright passed away August 1, 2000. Ed was the District Conservationist in Moultrie County, Illinois when he retired.
Oren Berto (84) passed away July 31, 2000. Word of his passing came to us from his son, Roy Berto. Oren retired as a Soil Conservation Technician in Michigan.
Jerry Lee passed away July 23, 2000. Jerry was the State Conservationist in TN before his retirement.
The fourth head of the Soil Conservation Service, Kenneth E. Grant (80) passed away July 21, 2000. Ken was born in New Hampshire in March of 1920. After receiving a B.S. in agronomy from the University of New Hampshire and serving for four years with the United States Army Air Corps, he joined SCS in 1946.
He advanced rapidly from Soil Scientist to Deputy State Conservationist by 1956. From 1959 to 1964 Grant was State Conservationist for New Hampshire. In 1964, after obtaining a Masters in Public Administration from Harvard University, he moved to the State Conservationist position in Indiana. It was there in the Lincoln Hills area that he helped initiate the first Resource Conservation and Development project in the nation. In 1967 he was selected to become Associate Administrator. Following the retirement of Donald Williams, Grant served as Administrator from January of 1969 to May of 1975 when he retired.
He carried out two assignments as advisor on erosion control in Pakistan and one assignment on soil and water management in India. He served as an advisor to the Ministry of Agriculture on soil and water conservation in Greece.
In 1971, the University of New Hampshire awarded him the honorary degree of Doctor of Science. He has received the Distinguished Service Award from USDA, which recognized his contributions in many areas including his response to growing public concern over the environment. Grant was a fellow of the Soil Conservation Society of America.
Gene Pope passed away July 20, 2000. As you recall Gene retired as Director, MWTC. Prior to that he had been Head, Lincoln EWP Unit, Construction Engineer, State Cons. Engr. in Indiana and served a tour in India.
Arden (Danny) Danielson passed away July 12, 2000. He retired from his Engineering Technician job the planning staff at the Iowa State Office in the middle '70's. He then worked in the same type of position for the Iowa Department of Soil Conservation until he had a second retirement.
STATESMAN Lucius W. Waterman (95) passed away July 11, 2000. Lucius retired in 1993 as a Soil Scientist in California.
Thomas E. Cowan (83) passed away on June 28, 2000. Tom was an Engineering Field Specialist in Texas at the time of his retirement January 1974.
Dick Leisher (74) passed away May 24, 2000. Dick retired from the River Basin Division at NHQ during February of 1981.
Eddie Lee Barbre passed away May 21, 2000 in Stillwater, OK. He retired from the NRCS in 1988 as an Engineer on the Watershed Planning Staff.
FORT WORTH -- Charles Harvey McElroy (61) passed away May 13, 2000. Charles was born in Asheville, N.C. and is now buried there in Forest Memorial Park. He was a 1957 Lee Edwards High School graduate and a 1962 graduate of North Carolina State University.
He retired in 1994 from the U.S. Soil Conservation Service after 33 years. Much of his career was in the U.S. Department of Agriculture. He was the head of the Soil Conservation Service-South National Technical Center - Soil Mechanics Laboratory in Fort Worth. He was elected Engineer of the Year for the U.S. Department of Agriculture Soil Conservation Service in 1974. He was active in ASTM since 1977 and was vice-chairman of Committee D-18 on Soil and Rock, a member of D-18 executive sub-committees for 10 years, and was recognized with D-18's Standard Development Award in 1989, the Outstanding Achievement Award in 1993 and the Technical Editor's Award in 1994. In 1996, he received the ASTM Award of Merit, the highest award granted to a member for distinguished service and outstanding participation. He was also a member of the National Society of Professional Engineers, the American Society of Civil Engineers, American Society of State Dam Safety Officials and the Earthquake Engineering Research Institute.
Charlie Dickerson (89) passed away April 5, 2000. Charlie started his career in the Civilian Conservation Corp as the youngest engineer in Randolph and Charlton Counties, Missouri. He had 40 years of service when he retired in 1970 as area engineer in Warrensburg.
Donald E. Milford passed away April 4, 2000. He was Design Engineer for EWP in Lincoln, NE.
Mike M. Weaver (88) passed away March 26, 2000. Mike worked for SCS as an Agricultural Engineer, and was an avid collector of drainage tile. He was inducted into the Virgil Overholt Hall of Fame at Ohio State University, and he established the Mike Weaver Drain Tile Museum in Geneva, NY.
Theron B. Hutchings, Ph.D., (88) passed away March 6, 2000. When he retired in 1982, after 44 years with SCS, he was serving as Utah State Soil Scientist.
Donald A. Clegg passed away February 17, 2000 in Pickerington, Ohio. His last assignment was Watershed and River Basin staff leader in Columbus, Ohio. He served in the US Air Force during World War II.
Roy Erwin (86) passed away February 14, 2000 in Stillwater, Oklahoma. Roy retired during 1974 as an Oklahoma Assistant State Conservationist. He is remembered for his concepts and early guidance of the RC&D program.
Lawrence V. Compton (93) passed away February 8, 2000. Lawrence was the National Biologist at the time of his retirement in 1974.
James O. McIntyre passed away February 7, 2000. He retired as the Area Engineer on the Eastern Shore of Maryland.
George E. Huey (73) passed away February 7, 2000. He was born in Station, Alabama, graduated from Auburn University, and served during World War II in the South Pacific. He was the State Conservationist in South Carolina before he retired.
Allen I. Fisk (82) passed away February 6, 2000. Allen retired as state conservationist for North Dakota during 1980 after 38 years of service.
Billy W. Collier (74) passed away January 29, 2000 in Stillwater, Oklahoma. He began his career with SCS during 1953 in the Administrative Services section of the Oklahoma State Office.
George E. Otte passed away January 26, 2000 in McMinnville, Oregon. When he retired in 1979 he was Wyoming's State Soil Scientist. He was an avid skier and mountain climber.
Elizabeth "Betty" Smith (81) passed away January 21, 2000 at Indianola, Iowa. She retired from the Contract Section in the state office.
Clarence Kingery (90) passed away January 11, 2000. Clarence retired as State Range Conservationist in May 1972.
Roy E. Hamilton passed away Dec. 31, 1999. Roy, a West Virginia graduate, retired as State Resource Conservationist in Indiana in 1979.
Mary Frances "Fran" Dwyer (86) passed away December 27, 1999 in Des Moines, Iowa. Fran served as Secretary to the State Conservationist in the 50's and 60's. She transferred to Iowa from the old regional office in Milwaukee when offices were set up in states.
Robert Bridgewater passed away December 24, 1999. Robert was a geologist.
Kendall P. Jarvis passed away December 19, 1999. Ken retired as the State Conservation Engineer in Maryland.
Raymond Perritte passed away December 11, 1999. Raymond was the husband of Barbara Perritte who retired from the Nacogdoches Area Office in Texas during 1990.
Herbert I. Jones (84) passed away August 26, 1999 in Englewood, Colorado. Herbert was a soil conservationist and a range management specialist during his career with SCS.
Walter Chessmore passed away on August 8, 1999. Walter was head of the training unit at the South NTC for many years.
Ingram T. Hermanson passed away June 11, 1999. He was Watershed Planning Specialist in NE.
Ed Kennedy passed away during April, 1999 in Milan, Missouri. Ed was the first district conservationist of Sullivan County, Missouri, and spent most of his career there.
F.H. "Chick" Latham passed away January 18, 1999 in Newport, OR. He retired in 1979.
Lloyd M. Pierre passed away Jan. 15, 1999. He worked with the FOCS software package in the West NTC and prior to that was the District Conservationist in Multnomah County, OR.
William B. "Bill" Davey (82) passed away Jan. 1, 1999. Bill was the 6th President of ARSCSE. He was Deputy Administrator for programs when he retired. Before that, he was State Conservationist for Arkansas. He was buried in Arlington Cemetery.
Jean Knull passed away Dec. 23, 1998 in Harrisburg, PA. She was Secretary to the State Conservationist, serving Benny Martin, Jim Olson, Graham Munkittrick, and Dick Duncan.
Elder Statesman, William W. Nace (91) passed away Dec. 22, 1998. He established the first Soil Conservation Office in Garrett County, MD. He served as District Conservationist of that county until 1972.
Forest W. Nolte (73) passed away Dec. 22, 1998. Forest retired as a Resource Conservationist in the Columbia, MO state office after 42 years of service. He spent 26 years in Poplar Bluff, MO as District Conservationist.
Phillip M. Price (93) passed away Dec. 16, 1998. He was State Engineer in Texas for many years.
Elder Statesman, William R. Stanley (92) passed away Dec. 12, 1998. He began his career in the Soil Erosion Service in Mankato, KS in 1934. Bill retired as Construction Engineer in the West NTC in 1973.
Gerald A. "Jerry" Morris (78) passed away Dec. 10, 1998. He was a retired District Conservationistat Hamilton, OH.
Adams Pacheco, Sr. (77) passed away Dec. 6, 1998. He worked in materials at Fort Worth, TX.
George Hanford Ritchie (82) passed away Dec. 4, 1998. He retired as Conservation Technician at Houlton, Maine.
Blaine Halliday passed away Dec. 1, 1998. Blaine retired as State Conservationist of Wyoming. He also served as State Conservationist for Alaska.
James M. Terry (81) passed away Nov. 29, 1998. Jim worked on the Administrative staff in Wisconsin for 40 years.
John P. Bewley (92) passed away Nov. 8, 1998. John retired as a Soil Scientist in Dec. 1970.
William A. Bruce passed away Nov. 5, 1998. He retired as a Construction Engineer in Temple, Texas.
Elder Statesman, J. Ross Oliver (92) passed away Oct. 15, 1998. He retired as Area Conservationist at Mason City, Iowa.
Elder Statesman, Miles E. Stephens (94) passed away Sept. 29, 1998. He retired as State Soil Scientist of Alabama.
Arthur Isom (66) passed away Sept. 6, 1998. Art served as Area Engineer at Houston, MO, and also on the River Basin Planning Staff in the State Office.
T. J. Laing (82) passed away Aug. 1, 1998. He served as a Soil Conservation Technician at Osceola, IA.
Kenneth V. Stewart passed away July 1998. KV was the State Conservation Engineer in Louisiana for many years prior to his retiement.
Elder STATESMAN, William T. Burtschi (90) passed away Feb. 9, 1998. He retired as State Engineer of Oklahoma.
P. B. Corbin passed away Jan. 6, 1998. He retired as District Conservationist at Rustin, LA.
Elder STATESMAN, George L. Winchester Sr. (1900-1998) was North Carolina's 20th Century Conservationist. He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Sadie.
Woodrow W. Wallin passed away Oct 15, 1997. He worked with USDA Statistics and was located in Washington, DC.
J. Russel Batie passed away June 18, 1997. He was Supervisor Wheeler-Case Project and was located in NE. He worked on the Mirage Flats Irrigation Project.
Wayne D. Criddle passed away Nov 29, 1996. He was in Irrigation Engineering Research located in UT as an Assistant to George D. Clyde.
Glenn L. Ellithorpe passed away July 4, 1996. He was an Engineer and was located in KS. He was also an Irrigation Well Specialist in India.
Gene H. Cox passed away June 23, 1996. He was State Resource Conservationist and was located in HI.
Chester J. Francis passed away August 31, 1994. He was Director SCS Engineering Division and was located in Washington, DC.
Clarence Stockland passed away Jan 10, 1994. He was a Soil Conservationist in NE.
Harold O. Ogrosky passed away Nov 4, 1993. He was Chief Hydrologist and was located in Washington, DC.
Ogden W. Greene passed away Feb 16, 1993. He was Director SCS Personnel Division and was located in Washington, DC.
Keith H. Beauchamp passed away Feb 29, 1992. He was a Drainage and Irrigation Engineer and was located in EWP Units in Milwaukee and Lincoln.
Herschel Hecker passed away March 13, 1991. He was Asst. Associate Administrator and was located in Washington, DC.
Jefferson C. Dykes passed away Dec 29, 1990. He was Assistant Director of SCS and was located in Washington, DC.
William R. Van Dersal passed away May 16, 1990. He was Deputy Administrator for Management and was located in Washington, DC.
Lloyd Partain passed away March 10, 1990. He was Assistant to the SCS Administrator and was located in Washington, DC.
Edson A. Reeder from Ohio passed away August 4, 1989.
Louis W. Herndon passed away May 10, 1988. He was Chief SCS Drainage Engineer and was located in Washington, DC.
Harold L. Jenkins passed away Dec 20, 1987. He was Chief of Information and was located in Washington, DC.
J. Dexter Haws passed away May 31, 1987. He was a Conservationist in KS and NE.
Ray Decker passed away March 2, 1987. He was Soils Engineer and was Head, Lincoln Soils Laboratory.
Burdette D. Blakely passed away Sept 18, 1986. He was Chief Agronomist and was located in Washington, DC.
Dwight S. McVicker passed away August 19, 1985. He was Head, EWP in Lincoln, NE.
Ralph C. Wilson passed away May 20, 1985. He was the Recreation Specialist and was located in Washington, DC.
Paul D. Doubt passed away Nov 7, 1984. He was Design Engineer in Design Section and was located in Washington, DC. He was a Hydraulics Expert.
Joseph B. Rogers passed away Nov 1, 1984. He worked in Foreign Programs and was located in Washington, DC.
Hubbard Y. Cott passed away March 15, 1984. He was an Engineer and was located in KS and India.
Charles V. Bohart passed away Dec 20, 1982. He was Recreation Specialist and was located in the EWP Lincoln, NE.
Donald A. Williams passed away Nov 12, 1982. He was SCS Administrator and was located in Washington, DC. He was the Founder of ARSCSE.
Robert W. Eikleberry passed away Sept 7, 1982. He was Soils Correlator and was located in Lincoln, NE and Ft. Smith, AR.
Hollis R. Williams passed away Sept 9, 1981. He was Deputy Administrator Watersheds and was located in Washington, DC.
Charles E. Kellogg passed away March 9, 1980. He was Deputy SCS Administrator Soils Division and was located in Washington, DC.
Kellogg, Charles Edwin (2 Aug. 1902-9 Mar. 1980), soil scientist, was born near Ionia in Ionia County, Michigan, the son of Herbert Francis Kellogg, a farmer, and Eunice Irene Stocken Kellogg. Following graduation from Palo High School, Kellogg enrolled at Michigan State College, where he pursued studies in science and mathematics, and eventually specialized in the new field of soil science. At that time, Americans had begun to view soils as natural bodies, the creations of unique combinations of soil-forming factors.
As a student, Kellogg participated in two major events in the utilization of soil data for planning. During the summers from 1923 through 1926, he did research and mapped soils for the land economic survey, an interdisciplinary project of the Michigan Department of Conservation. One objective of the survey was to help solve the problem of the cut-over lands, which had been logged by timber companies. The inefficient use of land vexed failing farmers and taxed the local economy and the state. Very early, Kellogg had learned to view soil properties in the context of their meaning to and interaction with the local society. He earned his bachelor of science degree in 1925 and remained at Michigan State College on a fellowship in soils, April 1926-April 1928, sponsored by the Michigan State Highway Department. Later he made a second contribution to the utilization of soils data. New concrete highways in some portions of Michigan had buckled. Kellogg made a study of the relationship between soil characteristics and the appropriate design for cement-concrete highways. The work led to definite procedures for highway construction in accordance with the soil conditions as assessed by detailed soil surveys. On December 25, 1925, Kellogg married Lucille Jeanette Reasoner; they had two children.
From April 1928 until December 1929, Kellogg directed soil surveys and carried out research on soil genesis for the Wisconsin Geological and Natural History Survey. In 1930 Michigan State College of Agriculture and Applied Science awarded him a Ph.D. for his dissertation "Preliminary Study of the Profiles of the Principal Soil Types of Wisconsin." The study was in the new field of "pedology."
In January 1930 Kellogg took an assistant professorship at the North Dakota Agricultural College, where he also was in charge of the soil survey program and land classification. He advised on the design of the soil survey of McKenzie County, North Dakota, so that it could be used in land classification for rural tax assessment. Once again, Kellogg made innovations in the area of what soil scientists would come to call "interpretations" of soil survey data for utilitarian purposes. His work in North Dakota brought him to the attention of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, whose soil scientists had responsibility for the soil survey, an activity that had started in 1899. In February 1934, Kellogg accepted a position specializing in land classification in the Bureau of Chemistry and Soils. On 1 July 1934 he became acting chief, Division of Soil Survey, and then chief of the division on 1 July 1935.
For nearly thirty-seven years Kellogg directed the work of the soil survey division. He sought to make the published soil survey a more useful document for farmers and other users. Curtis F. Marbut, Kellogg's predecessor, had worked to establish the soil survey as a scientific document, but he generally eschewed including "interpretations." Interpretations assessed the suitability of soils for particular uses such as for crops, forests, grazing, or a host of nonagricultural uses. Kellogg believed that the soil scientists themselves should work with other technical specialties to develop the interpretations of the soil survey.
The early years of Kellogg's leadership focused on tools to improve and advance the soil survey. He wrote the first edition of the Soil Survey Manual (1937) to give soil scientists more precise instructions, definitions, and procedures. In 1936 he had issued a USDA publication Development and Significance of the Great Soil Groups of the United States. That publication was used widely in college classes and gave a rather full discussion, in qualitative terms, of the five factors of soil formation. Kellogg wrote extensively in a clear lucid style. His most popular book, The Soils That Support Us (1941), examined the relationship of soil properties to historical developments. Many of his writings concerned public policy in soils and agriculture, but others ranged more widely, such as the Scientific Monthly series "The Scientist and Social Policy in the Democratic State." (1942)
After World War II, Kellogg traveled, studied, wrote, and spoke on world soil resources. He made tropical soils something of a specialty. His was one of only a few voices advising caution during the headlong exportation of Western agricultural technology. In Kellogg's opinion, Western agriculturalists should not recommend abandonment of traditional systems such as shifting cultivation, or slash and burn, until the supporting systems for a higher level of technology gradually developed.
The merger of the soil survey division into the Soil Conservation Service on 19 November 1952 brought additional resources. Kellogg greatly accelerated the field mapping and publication of soil surveys. To accelerate the mapping and provide a more useful document, he took several initiatives. Intense soil survey institutes at cooperating universities informed soil scientists of the latest developments in soil science. He ordered the development of a new soil classification system. Soil Taxonomy (1975) made greater use of laboratory analysis and quantification in definitions. Quantifiable boundaries and parameters defined the various categories in the system. Greater precision in description enhanced interpretations. Kellogg hoped that the new classification system would aid transfer of both empirical experience and research results internationally. He initiated a soil geomorphology research program that not only achieved its immediate objective of aiding the soil survey but also gained international renown for its contributions to the discipline. Kellogg was also an avid reader and student of literature. James Joyce was his favorite writer; he also liked D. H. Lawrence, Marcel Proust, and the diarist John Evelyn. Kellogg encouraged students and his charges to become general readers so that reading became a habit. Beginning with mimeographed lists for students, he prepared several versions of the Reading for Soil Scientists, Together with a Library.
On 31 May 1971 Kellogg retired from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. He died in Hyattsville, Maryland, and was buried in Palo, Michigan. Kellogg achieved one of the most distinguished careers in the history of soil science, a career marked by a dedication to assist land users through knowledge of soils. He attended college during the formative years of the young discipline termed soil science. As a student and young professor he made landmark contributions in "interpretations" of soil surveys. In his later career he advised, domestically and internationally, on soils and sustainable agricultural development.
Bibliography
Charles Edwin Kellogg's correspondence and other papers are among Record Group 54, Records of the Bureau of Plant Industry, Soils, and Agricultural Engineering and Record Group 114, Records of the Natural Resources Conservation Service, National Archives, College Park, Md., and the Special Collections, National Agricultural Library, Beltsville, Md. Also, consult David Rice Gardner, The National Cooperative Soil Survey of the United States, Historical Notes No. 7 (Washington, D. C.: Natural Resources Conservation Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 1998); Roy W. Simonson, Historical Highlights of Soil Survey and Soil Classification with Emphasis on the United States, 1899-1970. Technical Paper No. 18 (Wageningen, The Netherlands: International Soil Reference and Information Centre, 1989); and Douglas Helms, Anne B. W. Effland, and Patricia J. Durana, eds., Profiles in the History of the U. S. Soil Survey (2002). An obituary is in the Washington Post, 20 Mar. 1980.
Douglas Helms
Fred A. Haughton passed away Sept 29, 1979. He was State Conservationist for HI.
Ervin O. Peterson passed away May 28, 1977. He was State Agronomist in NE
George Dewey Clyde passed away in 1972. Born in Mapleton, Utah, he graduated from Utah State Agricultural College with a bachelor's degree in agricultural engineering. Clyde joined the Utah State faculty in 1923 and was dean of engineering at the school from 1935 to 1945. From 1945 to 1953, he worked for the U.S. Soil Conservation Service. He was Head SCS Research and was located in Logan, UT. An expert on water, he became director of the Utah Water and Power Board in 1953 and helped to initiate the Flaming Gorge and Glen Canyon dams. He later became Governor of Utah.
Frank Hutton passed away February 12, 1969 in Bradford, PA. In 1912, Frank graduated from the Pennsylvania State College with a degree in Agriculture. He took the civil service examination for a soil scientist in The Bureau of Soils and Chemistry, and started mapping soils in the north (MO and ND) during the summer and in the south (MS and AR) during the winter. He was automatically retired at age 70 years as a Soil Scientist at Salisbury, MD.
Dayton R. Vallicott passed away March 18, 1962. He was State Engineer in NE.
Last updated July 25, 2008 by Owen P. Lee