Richard P. Decker, 88, of Tampa , was born in Oak Park , IL on November 22, 1919, and passed away Wednesday, August 13, 2008.
He was a retired engineer/administrator with GTE, and served as an Army Air Corps fighter pilot during World War II, and was a German prisoner of war. He was an avid golfer and fisherman. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Betty; daughter, Candy Fernandez Bob; granddaughters, Lisa Fernandez and Julie Halstead Ryan.
Following cremation, a graveside funeral service will take place Friday, August 22 at 1:30pm at Florida National Cemetery , Bushnell , FL.
The family would like to thank all of his caregivers at University Village Nursing Center . In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the charity of your choice.
Arrangements entrusted to Veteran’s Funeral Care, 15381 Roosevelt Blvd, Clearwater, FL 33760.
Dick was one of the nicest men I met when I joined GTE Florida in 1960. No one I knew had anything but high regard for him. I send his family my deepest condolences.
You have my deepest sympathy. Candy please call me 813 961 0644I have been trying to find your Mom so I can call her. Hope she is all right. Have such good memories of both your parents. I called your Mom “Sis” cause that is how I felt. Hold on to your good memories of your Dad, thats what is important. Love Jo Relue
When I first transferred to Tampa with GTE in 1978, Dick was one of the first persons I met. He and I had something in common since I was from the Chicago area, as well. I remember him being gracious and helpful at that time, and I will always remember him for that. Thanks.
BETTY, CANDY AND FAMILY YOU KNOW HOW I FELT ABOUT RICHARD. MY PRAYERS ARE WITH ALL OF YOU. HE IS LOOKING DOWN ON ALL OF YOU SMILING AT THE LEGACY THAT HE LEFT BEHIND. I’LL SEE YOU SOON. LOVE CHARLOTTE
Dear Candy and Family,
Thinking of you, so sorry to hear about your loss.
I grew up in the neighborhood and remember the Decker family. I have nothing but respect for them. I am so sorry for your loss. I also would like to say thank you for the great care and support you gave Jean Innes over the years.
Sharon Wilder Davies
Betty and Candy:
You are all in our thoughts and prayers during this time. We have such wonderful memories of Dick. He was very special to all who knew him. Let’s keep in touch.
Love,
Babs and Bobbie
I worked with Dick at GTE for many years. He was a well respected man and in my opinion was TOPS. I started in 1956 and retired in 1988. I started in the Central Offices and then to Traffic Engineering, Switching Services, Revenue Development as a Manager.I remember Dick telling me how he was testing his P-38 over Italy with a new motor and it cut out and he had to bail out into enemy territory and eventaully captured. Being 17 years his junior, it was interesting and exciting to hear about his WWII stories.
The last time I saw Dick was in Helen, Ga several years ago in a German style restuarant.
He will be truly missed and I offer my condolences to the family.
Glenn Williams in Temple Terrace
813988-1970
I was saddened to learn of Mr. Decker’s death. I enjoyed having him as my patient for years and always admired his vitality and youthfulness until just a few years ago. My sincere sympathy goes out to you. I will miss him.
Dick was my golf partner for several years in the GTE Engineering and Construction Golf League. He and I won the league way back in 1982. Dick will always be remembered for his kindness and understanding. I always thought the world of Dick – kind of like a father to me in some respects after the death of my Dad.
Dear Betty and Candy,
I’m so sorry for your loss. Betty and Dick have always meant so much to my dear Aunt Ruby and Uncle Julian. Dick and Uncle Julian can go fishing once again together in heaven and are whole once again.
Love to you both,
Kathy Henson Alberts
Please accept my condolences and sympothies to the entire family for the loss of this fine person and loved one.
Candy, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your father. I have such good memories of both of your parents. I would love to hear from you, please call me if you get a chance 813-361-9472. Arlene
Betty and Family,
Dick was a good friend.
We worked together at GTE and played golf. He will be missed.
My deepest sympathy,
Tom Keough
Betty and Family,
My prayers are with you. Dick was so highly respected @ GTE AND Will be greatly missed by all.
Betty please call me @ 727.525.6832
Sincerely,
Pat
My former husband advised me of Dick’s passing. I have very pleasant memories of working with Dick in the early 60s when I was an engineering group secretary with GTE. My sincerest condolences to his wife and family.