Neil Chaitin Obituary

Neil Chaitin Born Feb 28, 1928, died unexpectedly of cardiac arrest, October 12, 2010. Best friend and beloved husband of 54 years of Jean Chaitin, loving father of Ken (Jeri), Katherine and Anne Chaitin. A graduate of the USNA, Annapolis, Neil served 5 years on submarines. He then moved to SF, where he married Jean. In 1962 he founded Challenge Equip., sold in 1992. Since 1995 he has enjoyed working for McKinley Elevator Corp. Neil adopted SF as his own and believed deeply in giving to his community. He brought his energy to local groups: Treasurer, Asian Art Museum Commission, founder of Pro Bono SF, Board member, Fort Mason. Neil also was on the Board and past-President of the SF Maritime Nat'l Park Assoc, advocating for children's programs and the WWII sub, the USS Pampanito. Neil's curiosity, intelligence and enthusiasm for life was reflected in his many interests: sailing, tennis, Asian art, history and travels with Jean. But it was his integrity, impish humor and deep caring that leave the biggest gaps. He will be deeply missed. Gifts in Neil's memory may be made to the San Francisco Maritime National Park Association, designated for Pampanito Education Program, P.O. Box 470310, San Francisco, CA 94147. A memorial gathering will be at Golden Gate Yacht Club, Tues Dec. 7 at 4pm.

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Published by San Francisco Chronicle on Oct. 18, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Neil Chaitin

10 Entries

Bradley Byrd

November 16, 2010

Neil was not only a dear friend to me, He was like a father image. He took me under his wing and guided me threw the work he loved and that's why I am where I am today. I will miss you Neil, But only until we meet again.

Bradley E Byrd

Tom Vandersommen

November 12, 2010

Neil was a great friend who taught me alot. We loved telling Sea Stories to each other since we were both in the Navy. Fair winds and following seas. I will miss you Shipmate

carlos quintana

November 5, 2010

May Neil rest in peace. I only just met him this year, but he made a lasting impression. I will always remember him when passing the USS pampanito.

Timothy Przygocki

October 21, 2010

Dear Chaitin Family,
Please accept our most sincere condolences for your loss. Neil was a great man and a true giver. We offer any help that you want and understand the deep emotions that loss of a father bring. Mr. & Mrs. Timothy Przygocki

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J. Ben Davoren

October 20, 2010

I really, really enjoyed knowing Neil. I looked forward to his visits. He will not be forgotten.

J Brad Canutt

October 20, 2010

Mrs. Jean Chaitin, Ken, Katherine and Anne,

On behalf of Submariners everywhere, may we extend our heart-felt, Sincere Condolences to you, and your entire family.

Hopefully, the following prayer will provide some degree of comfort, at this most difficult time.

THE FINAL PATROL

Lord this departed shipmate with Dolphins on his chest is part of an outfit known as the best.

Make him Welcome and take him by the hand; you'll find without a doubt he was among the best in all the land.

So heavenly Father, add his name to the roll of our departed shipmates still on patrol.

Let them know that we who survive will always keep their memories alive.

No submarine sailor is ever lost. The Supreme Commanding Officer, who governs all our movements, has only issued him a new set of orders and a transfer to new duties.

Sooner or later his family, loved ones, friends and shipmates will receive the same orders and all will serve together once more.

May our God be with each of us now and always.

Amen.

Sailor Rest Your Oar, We've got the Watch!

J Brad Canutt - USSVI Mare Island Base Chaplain

Jim Baldocchi

October 19, 2010

Dear Jean, I was sorry to hear about your loss of Neil. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.

Harvey Rifkin

October 19, 2010

Neil was a great guy and a gentlemens Gentlemen. A great sailor too!

Barbara Anderson

October 19, 2010

I am so sorry for your (our) loss. But I am also very happy that my son Michael and I got to see Neil last October at the family reunion where he looked great.
Love to all of you, Barbara

Becky Hollingsworth

October 19, 2010

I never met Neil, but if his son Ken is any indication of the man that Neil was, then I am impressed. Prayers to the Chaitin Family.
Becky Hollingsworth
AAA Meridian Idaho

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