BUDS Class 163. Remembered every day. More than just an Officer and Gentleman. Best person ever.
Submitted with love by his wife,
BUDS Class 163. Remembered every day. More than just an Officer and Gentleman. Best person ever.
Submitted with love by his wife,
KIA - Helman Province, Afghanistan
Never Forgotten.
Keith F. Gillette Jr. was born in Newport, RI, and grew up in Boston, MA. After graduation from Roger Ludlowe High School in Fairfield, CT, Keith attended the University of Connecticut and Georgetown University School of Dentistry. Keith joined the Navy in 1975 first serving as dental officer in the shore clinic from 1980-1982 and then as the Head of the Dental Clinic on USS Simon Lake. Keith loved the Red Sox and the Celtics, and enjoyed folk music such as Peter, Paul, and Mary. He is remembered by his siblings Glenn and Trudy, his daughters, Jaime, Whitney, and Lindsay, and his son, Cory.
A bathtub and toy ship sparked Joseph’s dreams of a career in the U.S. Navy. Working through college with only summer jobs and an R.O.T.C. scholarship, he earned a degree in Architectural Engineering at the University of Colorado, Boulder, and later a master’s degree in Naval Engineering at M.I.T. Aboard the USS Morrison (FFG-13) he found a love for the open sea. His career took him to Italy, Iraq, Japan and across the U.S. He yearned to experience new places and adventures but retained a devotion to his native Colorado. Joseph, forever curious, had a talent for puzzles (sprung from years of Lego building!) Although ambitious and goal oriented, he was also kindhearted and loving. He strove to be fair in his leadership, worked hard and had high expectations. An adoring father to his son and four legged kin as well, he loved and was well loved, and deeply missed.