Memorial Tributes

VFU is a 100% volunteer organization dedicated to honoring our veterans and families and providing them with compassionate resources for healing. In Oct. 2011, the VFU Board voted to designate 100% of all Memorial Funds to assist vets/military and families with small one-time emergency transportation needs. Veterans in need of this assistance, may send an email request by clicking here. Also, scroll down to “Veterans Transportation Assistance ” for the specifics and/or instructions on Pay Pal donations.

We Honor the following Veterans:

 
Adrangna, Mike (2010)
In memory of Mike Adrangna (1-11-10) from Gerald and Laurie Plummer.
Avey, Tomas Luke (March, 2015, OEF veteran, Army Ranger)
In loving memory of Tomas and his dedication to our country including two tours to Afghanistan in which he received the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart and Army Commendation Medal.  Saddened by the loss of this young soldier, family and friends pay tribute to his courage, love and service and the many lives he touched.
Bachman, William
In honor of William Bachman, Louisville, KY a Vietnam Veteran whose caring and help has touched many lives.
Bain, Ramsey – U.S. Coast Guard (2014)
In memory from the White family, OR.
Bank, Bert
In honor of Bert Bank, one of America’s finest Veterans and Patriots.
Bledsoe, William, US Navy (2010)
In Honor of the memory of William H. Bledsoe, Louisville KY, a US Navy Veteran.  
Borg, Joseph (2016)
In loving memory.
Bostick, Jr., Ranger Major Thomas, US Army (2007)
In memory/honor of Ranger Major Thomas G. Bostick, Jr.
Bradfield, Col. Robert Wayne, US Army
Col Robert Wayne Bradfield, Army from Boise, ID.
Briggs, SGT Casey, US Army
In memory of SGT Casey T. Briggs, a true example of the Army values. He will always be remembered for both his honorable service, and what a great person he was.
Breuer, James, WWII, US Navy (2014)
In Memory from Your Friends at Gotham Comedy Club and Gotham Comedy Live.
Butler, Benjamin Harris
In Memory of Commander Benjamin Harris Butler.
Casto, Leo (2014)
In Loving Memory.
Chesher, Grayford H., US Navy (2010)
Grayford served his country as a member of the US Navy in the Korean War on the USS Brinkley Bass. He extended his personal knowledge of service, being a veteran, and returning to civilian life by ministering to his grandson Joe as he struggled with the damaging and painful impacts of post-combat shock. But he didn’t stop there. This embracing outreach of comfort and resources extended to all veterans through his investment in Veterans Families United as a founding Board Member. He had a true heart of service and will be deeply missed.
Chesher, Thomas Aubrey, US Army Air Corp, WWII (2013)
Thomas Aubrey Chesher served his country proudly in the US Army Air Corp in WWII.  He continued his “service” to his country until his death in October of 2013.  He was committed to his family and served as an inspiration to the eldest of 8 children, in setting a standard for integrity and for faithfully recognizing the tremendous gift of freedom.  He was the oldest brother of Grayford Chesher, VFU founding Board member and great uncle of Joe Collins for whom this foundation began.  He made a difference.
Connolly, John (2015) In loving memory ~ From Linda A., Chris G. and Marybeth D.
Dean, Delmer, US Marines (2010)
In Memory of Delmer Dean, Oklahoma City, OK, US Marine Corp WWII Veteran, a man of great dignity and integrity and my hero (May, 2010).
Diaz, Joe, US Navy (July 22, 2011)
In memory of Joe Diaz who served in the US Navy and was a gunners mate third class and fought in the Normandy Invasion in WWII. He was loved by his family and had many friends, many of whom sent memorial tributes on his behalf. Joe was a true patriot and family man and will be missed by all who knew him.
Dukes, Philip T. (2012) Veteran’s Day 2012 – In honor and memory of Philip T. Dukes. We are blessed for his years of service in the United States Marine Corps. and kind spirit. He will be remembered always.
Dusold, Charles R., US Air Force (2011)
In loving memory of our dear brother, Charles R. Dusold, an Air Force Veteran, who was a joy and inspiration to all of us who loved him. He loved his country and had a special place in his heart for those who have served, and are currently serving our country.
Eller, Loren Eugene, US Navy
Loren Eugene Eller, US Navy from Bellevue, WA. 
Feather, Robert – USMC (Oct. 17, 2015)
In honor of Mr. Robert Feather, USMC Sgt. who served 3 tours in Vietnam.
Fisher, Thomas Edward – Retired Army – Vietnam Era (7-19-47 to 2-2-17)
God Bless his family and friends.  Rest in Peace.  In Sympathy, The McDermott Family
Gazdziak, Henry – Army (August, 2016)
In memory of Henry Gazdziak, US Army Veteran, Korean War.  Rest In Peace.
Gerome, Anthony, J. – US Army  (2014)
In memory from the White family, OR.
Goldhagen, Herman – WWII Veteran  (Dec., 2014)
Thank you for your service to our country.
Green, (Robert) Cody, US Army National Guard, 45th Infantry Division, Oklahoma (9-13-2011)
Family and friends mourn the loss of Cody Green. He served honorably in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan from 02-03 and was activated again and served in New Orleans during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Cody had a deep heart of service and compassion and extended that to those he loved and in service to his country. We pay tribute to the efforts of his mother, Sara Green, who was a founding VFU Board Member and did all that she could to support not only her son, but those touched through VFU’s mission in the challenges faced by the invisible wounds of war. A recent donation (12-11) was made stating “Our donation is dedicated to Robert “Cody” Green, our beloved cousin, friend and playmate. ”
Hall, Thomas R., US Army
In loving memory of Mr. Thomas R. Hall III, Staff Army Sergeant on behalf of Creative Benefits, Inc., Newtown Square, PA.
Hammert, Walter, Jr. (USAF – Korean War) 2015
In loving memory of Walter Hammert, Jr., a founding VFU Board member since 2007 (along side his wife of 43 years, Dorothy). His presence will be missed, but his spirit of genuine, lifelong commitment to veterans and families will be with us always.  Farewell, our dear friend.  You have left a legacy that has touched many lives with your kindness and steadfast service.
Harris, Brandon, US Army (2005)
In memory of Sgt. Brandon Harris for his service to our country in Iraq and for the legacy he left through his loving family who continue to serve veterans as a life long tribute to him.
Higgs, Clifford Leon, USAF MSGT (Ret.) (9/22/13)  In Memory of USAF MSGT (Ret.) Clifford Leon Higgs, Sr.  A hero to his country, a gentle “Papa” to his family. 
Hoff Jr., Robert F., (3-2016)
In memory and gratitude for your service.
Hollis, David
In memory of Hollis, David.
Keselmeyer, Major William Philip
In Memory of Major William Philip Keselmeyer. 
Landesman, Jay  (2016)
In loving memory
Lee, Norris Larry (Tiny)
In Memory of Norris Larry (Tiny) Lee 2-24-26 to 5-26-11, buried with Military Honors, Ft. Riley Cementary, Ft. Riley, KS.
McCullagh, Matthew Ryan (Army Special Forces: Green Beret – 2015) In memory of your service.
McNiece, Jake – Paratrooper and WWII Veteran (January, 2013)
In memory of Jake McNiece for leading 18 paratroopers behind enemy lines in a 36-day mission which helped to ensure the safety of his brothers-in-arms during the Normandy invasion.  Jake then worked for the US postal service where he retired.  His 93 years were full of “service” to others.
Mellen, Henry W. – WWII Veteran (January, 2014)
In Memory of USMC Henry W. Mellen, WWII veteran, for his military service to our country and to his ongoing service to fellow veterans and families through this memorial.
Melott, John
In memory of John Melott and to encourage family members to look for the warning signs of depression and PTSD and to intervene as much as they can.  
Milstein, Abraham (2013)  
In loving memory of Abe Milstein who never forgot his patriotism, or love for his country. From Susan and Erick Reickert.
Nurse, Mary T. (February, 2014) – CT.
In memory from the Schuster family.
Nurse, Robert V. (January, 2014) – CT.
In memory from the Schuster family.
O’Kelly, LTC Francis M., MD
In Memory of LTC Francis M. O’Kelly, M.D. (2010).
Payne, Larilane, US Army (2010)
In loving memory of Larilane Payne, Military One Source Coordinator for Central Oklahoma. Larilane was formerly in the military and used her knowledge and her heart of service to go far above and beyond the call of duty. She was an inspiration and gift to all who were blessed to cross her path.
Perkey, Bill US Air Force (2012)
In Loving Memory of Bill Perkey, Royal Oak, MI: An Air Force Veteran.
Porter, James Evert (Feb., 2015, US Army Air Corp WWII)
In memory of a veteran that lived a life a service; who never stopped learning or living life to its fullest and who loved his family deeply.  His passion for embracing all of it will be carried forward through his legacy and love and by modeling the “celebration of life”.
Powers III, Thomas “Tim” Joseph (January, 2014 USMC)
A wonderful father and friend who will be missed greatly.
Rockwell, Sr., Edward O.
In loving memory of Edward O. Rockwell, Sr. (Plum, Pa) whose life was an example of kindness, integrity, honor and selfless service.
Sandmann, Karl R. (2010)
In Loving Memory of Mr. Karl R. Sandmann, Wilmington, MA whose family, friends and community (Maine, Massachusetts) sent an outpouring of donations in his honor; a testament of Mr. Sandmann’s impact on the lives of others and his desire to carry that forward to veterans and their families.  
Schilling, Richard (US Navy, 2015)
In memory of Richard L. Schilling who served the the US Navy on the USS Vesole DDR-878 (on behalf of this veteran from the Molina’s)
Schimmel, Gilbert L. (Army, Navy, 2017)
In loving tribute from son Mark and his family to a man who, throughout his life, was a model of goodness, kindness and honor.  He was admired for his ability to handle any task or problem with steadfast composure and competence and beloved for his wit and humor, his kind understanding and his ability to make anything he put his hand to, beautiful and well-crafted.  He was loved and appreciated and his legacy is that he left the world a better place by living a life of service.
Seigel, Murray (2012)
In memory of Murray Siegel from Alex D. Wender and Frank Kron.

Stedman, Lynn (Army National Guard, 2012)

In loving memory of Lynn Stedman, a humble servant of the Army National Guard for over 30 years and a man whose life was dedicated to the principles of freedom through his connection with family, faith and community.
Stern, Josh (2010)
In memory of Josh Stern who died on Oct. 15, 2010 a soldier who had just returned from his second tour of duty in Iraq and in deep awareness that casualties of war are often invisible.
Sullivan, Chuck, US Air Force (2010)
On October 10, 2010, Chuck Sullivan, an Air Force veteran, passed away at the age of 77. He served our great nation from 1951 to 1959. Mr. Sullivan not only loved his country, but he had a special place in his heart for those who have served and are currently serving in our military. Mr. Sullivan was blessed with 55 years of marriage to his wife, and he was a loving father, grandfather and great grandfather. His family sincerely appreciates the many people who donated to Veterans’ Families United Foundation in his honor and memory.
Thornberg, Jr., Nils A., US Air Force
In Memory of Nils A Thornberg Jr, Airforce. A loving husband, father, pa, and much more.
Uphold, Cliff – (USMC, May, 31, 2015)
In memory of a beloved husband, father, and grandfathers, this donation was made in his memory and on behalf of his love for his daughter, son-in-law and grandson.

Valencia, Raymond – 1928-2013
In grateful memory of his service.

Walsh, Col. Thomas (2011)
In memory of Col. Thomas Walsh, a WWII, Korea and Vietnam Veteran. Tom was an inspiration to so many people. He served his country with distinction and those who knew him felt blessed and proud as he left the world a much better place.  
Williamson, Harold MSG (R)  – (2013)  
In memory of Harold Williamson and his pride and service in our country from the Animal Medical Center of Calhoun Co., Anniston, AL.
Wolfe, Russell
In Memory of Russell Wolfe and his passion to serve veterans – a quiet hero.
Woodyard, Tsgt Robert R., USAF
In memory of TSgt. Robert R. Woodyard, USAF and in honor of his daughter and her lifetime commitment to hope and healing, Cathy Woodyard Bray.   

We Honor the following surviving Veterans:

Williams, Zachary (Zach) – Army National Guard
In gratitude and honor of Zachary Williams, OEF and OIF veteran who earned a Purple Heart for his courage and service.

We Honor the following Family and Friends of Veterans:

Baxter, Margaret M. (March 31, 2015)
Over the years, Margaret contributed to our veterans’ cause, as she too, was married to a veteran who served our country. This was a cause that was deeply close to her heart, as was giving back to families in need (from her daughter Sherry).
Ferguson, Nelda Ph.D. (2011)
In loving memory of Dr. Nelda Ferguson, wife of WWII KIA, whose life was devoted to serving others. She understood service and sacrifice and committed her adult life, until the age of 86, to advocated for those in need by offering her services, support and encouragement.
Velma, Johnston (2016) 
In loving memory of Velma Johnston and her steadfast support of veterans and their families.
Loveland, Lesa (2012)
In loving memory of a daughter, sister, aunt and friend who was dearly loved by her family.
Mighty Little Oakes (2012)
In honor of the family of Connie Fox Moore, founding VFU Board Member, and the mightly little Oakes (her grandchild) who was a little warrior that fought a valient battle during his one year of life. Little Oakes and his family exemplified the power of family, friends, Faith and how loving support sustains us through difficult times.
Pattee, Margaret Strabala Stockley (2011)
In loving memory of Margaret Pattee and her lifelong support of those who have served our country and on behalf of the many who loved her.
Schultz, Loretta (2012)
In memory of Loretta Shultz and in honor of her late husband, Edward Schultz, USAF.
Veterans Transportation Assistance Information Sheet:
If you would like to donate on behalf of a veteran/loved one, you may make the donation on Pay Pal by clicking on the Pay Pal button on this page, or you may mail your donation to our P.O. Box also listed on this link.
Pay Pal Donation Instructions:
1. Click on the Pay Pal Button to make your transaction.
2. Return to this page and tell us the name and any special information you would like added to the tribute by clicking here (contact us-general comments).
3. You will be sent a receipt and the family will be notified of your tribute.
Donate Securely Online: Donate By Mail:
Veterans’ Families United Foundation P.O. Box 14355 Oklahoma City, OK 73113
Employer Matching Donations
Many companies have programs that permit employees to donate to charities of their choice, and for the company to match the employees’ contribution. Please check with your employer to see if there is a matching gift program for employees. Normally, employees provide proof to their employer of their contribution, and the company contacts Veterans’ Families United Foundation by clicking here and requesting that we complete a matching gift form they provide.

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