From Jeff Hilton; <jcedhilton@hotmail.com>
Subject: Thanks to All USS Sterett Shipmates for Your Warm Remembrances of; Dad
Date: 07/12/2008 08:07 AM
On Behalf of my Brother Jack and Myself we would like to pass on our sincere thanks to you all for your warm remembrances of Dad.
My brother Jack can remember a little better than me Dad's time as commander
of the USS Sterett and its rich history.
We apologize that we both had trips planned last year that will not allow us
to attend the the commissioning ceremony of the newest USS Sterett
scheduled on the 9th of August.
We are appreciative of those who are going out of their way to attend Dad's
funeral later the following week. That indeed is a great honor. Dad suffered
from Alzheimer's his last few years and the last six months was cared for six
days a week by a great lady Maggie Ford who works for Ready Hands. Jack, my
brother and I were responsible for Sundays. Dad was up and ready to go and when
I drove up to pick him up to attend Ft Myer Chapel, he was out the door and
ready to get in the car before I could even get out of the car. We attended
Sunday School (Dad read a passage Nehemiah 6:15-19 about success in the midst of
adversity with God's help). After the service and a Parish Council meeting Dad
was home with us as we prepared for a late lunch. We had just called Dad to the
table when my wife Elizabeth noticed a dramatic change in Dad color. Dad was
unresponsive and Elizabeth dialed 911 while I worked on him till the Paramedics
arrived. Dad seemed to be back with us, but was gone on the way to the hospital.
Thanks to all of your for each of your contributions to Dad's life and
helping us honor him. We appreciate you and send our love to you and your
families.
Respectfully,
Jeff Hilton on behalf of my family and my older brother Jack
"Truth Matters, Character is Always An Issue and One Person Can Make a Difference"