John Ross East Jr.

John Ross East, Jr. John Ross East, Jr., retired Air Force colonel, passed away in Austin on March 10, 2007, at the age of 91. Jack grew up in Cleveland, Ohio, and graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1940. He married the former Amie Therese Dean of Texas in 1941, and served as a pilot in the Pacific Theater during World War II, where he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Legion of Merit, and the Bronze Star. Jack retired after 30 years in the Air Force and in 1968, moved to San Marcos, Texas, where he lived until moving to Austin last year. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Therese; his sister, Shirley Wallington and husband Cam of SC; his four children, John Ross East III and wife Carol of Anchorage, Brian East and sweetheart Norris of Austin, Philippa Taylor and husband Zack of Del Valle, and Connie Garcia and husband Mike of Del Valle; and four grandchildren, Shane McGee, Artie Garcia, Brenden Taylor, and Chloe East. He was predeceased by his parents John Ross and Isabel Large East, and by his brother Billy. Smart, athletic and mischievous child; beloved classmate and honored war hero; career Air Force officer; warm and loving husband, father, and grandfather; cherished family member. Papa, we are so blessed to have you. Warmest thanks to all his caregivers, including Bea, Cheri, Ellen, Kim, Morgan and Salmah. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 13, 2007, at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home. Funeral services will be on Wednesday, March 14, 2007, at 9:30 a.m. in the Weed-Corley-Fish Chapel. Burial will follow at 1:45 p.m. at Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio, with full military honors. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to the Paralyzed Veterans of America, the Texas Talking Books Program, or to a charity of your choice. Obituary and guestbook online at http://wcfish.com