June 2014

Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association:

On April 12, 2014, you all helped to give Clay the final tribute, scattering his ashes in the Pacific Ocean via Boat 2. The crew of Boat 2 were so kind and helpful to all of us passengers. Andy Kuljis did a great job planning all this and then unable to attend. He sent Jim Dolan who filled Andy’s shoes. Jim was so friendly and so concerned about me and family and friends.

Chaplain Tim Werle was also so much an inspirational and supportive help to me. You could have never sent a chaplain that could have been more friendly to all our family and friends aboard. Thanks Tim.

Then there was John Keyes and his beautiful music from his bagpipes. All I said that day from family and friends was “this is the most awesome thing I was ever a part of.”

Please accept this check as a down payment in memory of my spouse Clay Stapel. He would thank you if he could for the durable medical equipment, supplies, etc. during the two plus years of his illness resulting in his demise on January 22, 2014. He was as comfortable and cared for so well with all the help from LAFRA.

The flag that flew over 80’s was an awesome sight in that beautiful frame. The framed certificate of the area and the G.P.S. coordinates is incredible, marking the location of Clay’s remains.
I will be grateful forever that I met Clay Stapel at a friend’s house. Clay gave me such a wonderful 36 ½ years.

Thank you for everything,

Phyllis Stapel and family
Valencia, CA

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Dear Mr. Kuljis,

Thank you again for your help and advice regarding Ron’s pension and Mr. Wicke. Mr. Wicke explained the details to me and now I understand. I’m very grateful for I receive.

Thank you,

Marhie Leahey Pierce
El Segundo, CA

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LAFRA –

We feel so fortunate to have had the pleasure of knowing Dottie Giordano for all the years we did. “Riverhouse” trips and family get togethers were made so very special by her presence. Please apply this donation in her memory – to the Widows, Orphans and Disabled Firemen’s Fund.

Also, please accept this donation in the memory of Leonard Cobb . . . fellow firefighter and bike rider.

Thank you,

Gary and Suzie Cramer
Whittier, CA

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Andy Kuljis,

Please accept this donation for my Fire Department friends: Erne Lona, William R. Burnidge, Clarence Staple, Wayne Butcher and Lyle W. Marvin, Jr. I have good memories of all these guys.

Thank you,

Harry Morck

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To the Widows, Orphans and Disabled Firemen’s Fund;

Please accept this donation honoring Dan Mattox. Dan was a one-of-a-kind, very generous and accommodating person. I had the fun experience of visiting Dan and his wife Jody at their home where the good times fly. Dan should be remembered for his business making tee shirts by the hundreds. A business that started out from the trunk of his truck. My knowledge of Dan’s knowledge and firemanship in the harbor fire stations is nothing but very good.

God bless the Mattox family and other friends who have lost a great guy.

Jack and Joan Bennett
Bluffton, SC

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LA Firemen’s Relief,

This check is in loving memory of Carroll Hopkins, my uncle.
He was a Los Angeles fireman who served proudly. I will always remember him fondly for his kindness and caring for others.

Franz and Rhonda Pleth
Burbank, CA

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Dear LAFRA

Please accept this donation to the Widows, Orphans and Disabled Firemen’s Fund in memory of my husband, Mike Brumbaugh.

Thank you,

Christine Brumbaugh
Riverside, CA

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To the Widows, Orphans and Disabled Firemen’s Fund

Please accept this donation honoring Chief Willis Friend. My contact with Willis was in Division 3 and there was nothing but good comments about his fire management. He was always there when you needed a positive comment or assistance in planning, or report writing.

May God bless his family and friends with their loss.

Jack Bennett
Bluffton, SC