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AMBROSE
COL. JOHN W. III (USAF RET.)
Age 68, passed away December 19, 2013, after a courageous fight against ALS for over two years. A native of Pittsburgh, PA, he graduated from Duquesne University in 1966 and also earned two Master's degrees. He had a distinguished 26 year career in the U.S. Air Force, earning the Defense Superior Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, and the Bronze Star Medal. John served overseas with two tours in Vietnam, and numerous stateside bases. After retiring from the Air Force, he continued his career as a defense contractor with General Dynamics, retiring in 2012. John was an active member of Poquoson Kiwanis, Poquoson Exchange Club, and Tidewater Z Car Club. John is survived by his wife of 47 years, Cecelia "Sis" Ambrose; daughter, Jennifer; son, Phillip; mother, Irene Ambrose; brother, Gary Ambrose; and five grandchildren, Zachary, Zayne, and Sophia Dallal, and Carissa and Maxwell John Ambrose. His father, John W. Ambrose, Jr. preceded him in death. The family will receive friends and family for a memorial celebration of his life on Sunday, Dec. 22, 2013, 2:00 p.m., at the Poquoson Yacht Club, followed by a reception at the Club. Guests are encouraged to attend the service in John's favorite attire, jeans, and a t-shirt. Interment will be in Arlington National Cemetery, with full Air Force honors, at a later date. A Memorial Mass and reception will be held in Pittsburgh at a later date. The family requests, in lieu of flowers, contributions to the ALS Association, 1275 K St. NW, Suite 250, Washington D.C. 20005, or online at alsa.org. Online condolences to claytorrollins.com. CLAYTOR ROLLINS FUNERAL HOME, Poquoson, is assisting with arrangements. "John was loved by many and will be missed greatly by all."
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January 15, 2014
Ken Anderson
Sis, I was saddened to hear of the loss of your husband. I only met him once, but he left an impression on me as a great and loving husband and father and that he was very devoted to his family. May God be with your during this time of grieving.
December 30, 2013
Barbara McGivern-Edwards
Sis, you have my very deepest sympathy.
December 28, 2013
jim crnkovich
Sorry to hear of your last Sis my prays are with you
December 26, 2013
Robert Bechard
Sis, I am so sad to hear about your loss of John. I am so glad that I had the chance to meet such an interesting man. He was so much fun to be around. Thank you for introducing him to me. I pray that you find comfort in your memories of him and with your family. You are in my prayers.
December 22, 2013
Lt Col Ted Novak USAF Ret
To the Ambrose Family
My sincere condolences on the passing of my friend,ClASSMATE , AND FELLOW BROTHER IN ARMS....JOhn and I went through Duquesnes ROTC and both served on Wing Staff ouR senior year.May he now rest in Peace.
December 22, 2013
Verner Spohn
Another of our Band of Brothers has made his final journey West. Thank you for your dedicated service, my friend.
December 21, 2013
Joanie meanor
Sis, words cant convey the sadness I feel for you with the loss of Johnny. I pray you find comfort in family and friends. A nice man gone too soon.Love ya, cuz
December 21, 2013
Thank you for your service to our Country
God be with you
December 21, 2013
Sincere sympathy to the Ambrose Family
He was a great American
December 21, 2013
Thank you for your service to our country
May you rest in peace
a grateful citizen
December 21, 2013
I did not know John Ambrose in person, only by name from his sister-in-law Suzanne Jones. By all accounts from Suzanne ad my brother Tom, John was a person of high quality and super personality. The Lord has taken away a wonderful person. My deepest sympathy to his family and friends.
George Maciorowski, Pittsburgh, PA
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Claytor Rollins Funeral Home - Poquoson836 Poquoson Avenue, Poquoson, VA 23662
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