Birth date: Jan 18, 1921 Death date: Dec 11, 2014
PILAFIAN, HARRY, 93, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 11, 2014. He is survived by his beloved wife, Audrey of 65 years, his sons Martin and Robert John, daughter Mary Katherine, 5 grandchildren, and 6 great grandchildren and was prec Read Obituary
I was thinking just yesterday of Harry's magic carpet cleaner that he used to sell at trade shows :-) ...which got me thinking of your wonderful, happy home full of ducklings and warmth and delicious food and Tripoli and love. You were a second family for me and always a joy. Harry was a wonderful man and father.
In life it is extremely beneficial for young men to have a mentor to guide and point them in the right direction. I was fortunate to have two such men in my life, my father and Harry.
Harry and I have always been ham radio enthusiasts. I learned many things from him regarding the art of radio and electronics.
There are so many memories I have of my times with Harry. One such event seems to exemplify Harry's ability to cleverly weave humor into the fabric of life's events.
Harry had a distinguished career as an officer in the U.S. Navy. Knowing this, I asked Harry if he would admininister the Oath of Office to me for my U.S. Air Force officer commissioning ceremony.
He graciously accepted and somehow found a uniform that fit. To everyone's suprise, we discovered that Harry had intertwined extra verbage into the official oath.
My special oath made me swear to "support and defend the Constitution...", as well as require me to "never cause detrimental interference on the ham radio frequencies", "so help me God". Upon completion of my special oath I gave Harry my first salute as a military officer.
I salute you again Harry Pilafian, job well done.
Allen Brown
W4SQG de K4AL SK
Harry had such a great sense of humor, which will live in our memories. He even took falling in our pool with composure and a smile. Harry, Audrey and Kathy brought many happy moments into our lives. Our sympathies to the passing of a good person.
