Two More Pass Away.

I just received word that two friends, and contributors to EVERYTOWN, USA have passed away.   God rest their souls.

Lucille Parker Steckley died at the age of 90, on January 13, in Pomona Park, Florida.  Her brother, Donald Parker, a World War II airman, was featured in Chapter 55 of EVERYTOWN, USA.  She was more than willing to help with the piece.  I even quoted her in the book.  Sadly, Donald never returned from his first bombing run over Tokyo.

I did have the pleasure of speaking with Lucille shortly after the book’s release.  I’m happy to say that she was very pleased with the finished product.

Lucille Shultz Forker, also age 90, passed away on January 15.  She not only helped me with the stories of Kenneth and Paul Forker, her husband and brother-in-law respectively, but also with the chapter on Johnny Hutchison, who lived with her family for a year, when they were young.

Kenneth Forker served with the 8th Air Force in Europe.  Paul Forker, also with the Army Air Corps, was killed in a training exercise, while still in the States.  Johnny Hutchison, a Marine, died fighting on day one at Iwo Jima.

EVERYTOWN, USA is far richer for the contributions of Lucille Parker Steckley and Lucille Shultz Forker.  Thank you, ladies.  Rest in peace.