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Lt. J.G. Darin Howard Pontell
Lt. J.G. Darin Howard Pontell
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J.G. Darin Pontell Obituary
"When that happened, Darin mentioned that he'd like to pick up where his brother Steven left off, to complete the circle," his father, Gary Pontell, said.
Darin Pontell, a native of Arlington Heights who moved with his family to Baltimore in 1985, graduated with honors from the U.S. Naval Academy. His job in Navy intelligence took him to some of the most dangerous regions of the world.
Lt. j.g. Pontell married Devora Volk, a lawyer, in March. He began working at the Pentagon in April and celebrated his 26th birthday last month. He lived in Gaithersburg, Md.
"When he returned to the Pentagon, we felt he was so safe," his father said. "Who would have thought of the Pentagon as a target?"
Gary Pontell is left with one son, Michael, 33.
"Darin and his brother Mike were my best friends," Gary Pontell said. "And being that both of them were such family people, we always spent a lot of time together. That's what I'm going to miss. The Sunday afternoons and Sunday evenings. I'm going to miss the phone calls."
Darin Pontell will be buried next to his brother in the Baltimore Hebrew Congregation Cemetery.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Susan Speizer
September 12, 2023
Thinking of the Pontell family at this time of remembrance. Sending thoughts of peace and love.
Anonymous
September 11, 2023
May your neshama have an aliyah. You are not forgotten.
Joanie Gross
September 11, 2023
I did not know Darin, but have been wearing his name on my wrist for 22 years. It's been a while since I read about him and today was so surprised to learn/remember that he served on the Ike - my daughter-in-law has just completed a 2 year assignment on the Ike. I continue to pray for Darin, his family and friends. We will never forget.
July 5, 2019
May the Lord always protect and bless you, Darin.
• Alex
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Del Newberry
July 26, 2017
Praying for the friends and family today. Thanks Darin for your service. We will never forget. Much love from Texas.
Vic Otero
July 10, 2017
I never met Darin but was lucky to be his brothers squad leader for his plebe summer. Both these men made the ultimate sacrifice. Rest in Peace boys look over your mom and brother. Go Navy!!!
Jason J. Gonzalez
September 11, 2016
LTjg "Mini Me" Pontell, we were stationed together at CVW-7. I have find memories of your professionalism and sense of humor! We made a friendly wager and I lost, everytime I see a bottle of Makers Mark, I honor you memory. I am proud to say I knew and served with you. OS1 "Gonzo" Gonzalez. God Bless
U r not alone out of everyone 13 yrs later
September 12, 2014
God Bless! When u lose someone u love u gain an angel u know!
U r not alone out of everyone 13 yrs later
September 12, 2014
When you lose someone u love...u gain an angel u know
Alexandra Presscott
September 11, 2013
Taking time to reflect and remember. It was my pleasure to meet Darin's brother, Stephen. Many of us remain, sorting the details of that dreadful day. Also, remembering the good company of which, Darin shares of those whom preceded, served along side and that followed through faithful service in his honor. Rest peacefully, with Eternal Fair Winds and Flowing Seas.- Seek peace and pursue it.
Kati Hill
September 11, 2012
Thinking of you and your family today. Darin was in my squad at the Naval Academy. I remember him talking about his brother and how much pride he had in his service. I am so sorry for your loss and will never forget his sacrifice.
Summer of 1997, 3rd from left
Joseph May
September 12, 2011
Summer of 1997
Joseph May
September 12, 2011
NAPS '94 2nd Co. 2nd Plt
September 11, 2011
I had the honor of meeting this fine American at NAPS. He was intelligent, a hard worker - Darin was a man of character. Rest in peace shipmate.
G S
September 11, 2011
RIP
Joseph May
September 11, 2011
Darin was my first class trainer for 3 weeks during my first Midshipman cruise the summer of 1997. To this day, he and those few weeks remain one of my fondest memories during my time at the Naval Academy. It was with a heavy heart that I looked upon the pictures of him and the rest of the Sailing Crew for the first time since 9/11, and cried. God bless, and your shipmates miss you.
Sue & Gary Speizer
September 11, 2011
Marilyn and Michael,
Our thoughts are with you on this very difficult day. Darin was so very special to us. Looking at Macs and Pcs brings back the funny "discussions" we had on which was best. His smile brought light and happiness to those around him. We love him and miss him. We hold you all in our hearts.
AO1(AW) USN (Ret.) Charles McCuller
September 11, 2011
I had the pleasure to serve with Darin in CVW-7/USS Eisenhower. "Mini-Me " was one of those rare Officers that could relate to Officers and us enlisted men equally well. He treated everyone as a friend and shipmate. I regret that I was not able to attend his memorial as I was at sea onboard USS John F. Kennedy preparing to complete the mission that Darin himself had started. He will never be forgotten.
Tom Visser
September 10, 2011
Darin, miss you buddy. Peace be with you.
Jenny Page
September 11, 2010
To the family of Darin Pontell, my husband and I visited the Montgomery County memorial in Rockville today and, again, saw Darin's bench and thought of his sacrifice. Our sympathy and lifelong appreciation go to his family and loved ones. Thinking of you on this day.
G S
September 11, 2010
You were remembered at my younger brother's wedding to Stefanie Wolk this past May.
Rest in peace.
Peggy Childers
September 5, 2010
To the family of Lt. J.G. Darin Howard Pontell:
Darin gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our heroes of September 11 be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you.
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Major Michael Young
March 24, 2010
Our family is familiar with and remembers LT. Darin Pontell by way of seeing his memorial at the USNA. We are frequent visitors to the USNA campus and we include a special visit to Bancroft Hall during these tours. My wife and children enter the hallowed halls of Bancroft, ascend the great stairway and view "Don't give up the ship". As we walk to the right, we discover his name on the hall of fallen sailors and see his name engraved on the plaque. This moment is always heartfelt and renews our energy to take the fight to the enemies of the United States. G-d bless the neshoma of LT Pontell and the lives of his family.
Charlie Pugh
September 11, 2009
I had the pleasure of going to school with Darin and meeting his family during my second class year when Darin and I were in the same squad. He was always one of the nicest and most giving individuals I had ever met.
I remember very vividly seeing the pictures of his brother in his parent's basement and how proud they were of him. I know they are proud of Darin as they were of his older brother.
Darin you will always be remembered and your sacrifice that you and your family have made will never be forgotten. God bless.
Beth Thorowgood Kraft
September 11, 2009
Darin and I spent some time together 2/c year, every day after school for about 6 weeks, at the top of a 10m diving tower trying to convince each other to jump off. Neither one of us was a fan of heights, but somehow we both jumped on the same day. Having him there to joke about the predicament we were in made the whole thing a little easier.
Darin, thanks for being there for me back then. You are missed very much.
Meghan Reardon-Smith
September 11, 2009
Wish I'd known about this earlier! Darin was someone I considered a friend, and his loss was felt by many. My thoughts and prayers continue to be offered for his family...please know that I often mention Darin when discussing honor, sacrifice, and love of country. He has not been forgotten!
Antonio Zavala
May 25, 2009
Thinking of Darin and his family on this Memorial Day. I was Darin's roommate at NAPS and remember him well. I continue to tell his family's story of honor and sacrafice for this great country. They will not be forgotten. Thank you, Darin. Fair winds my friend.
Robert Sudhoff
May 22, 2009
May 22, 2009
My regards to the Pontell family. I never met any of them, but I was on an observation platform above the deck on the USS Lexington watching the landings, when the crash took place.
While I narrowly avoided the crash, I can only think of the loss that day. I grew up in Annapolis and had two sisters marry USNA grads, one becoming an F/A-18 pilot. Thank you for their service to our country.
Sam DiPaola
September 17, 2008
Steve and I were plebes together in 25th Company at USNA. I had the honor of meeting Darin during Parent's Weekend following our Plebe summer, and still remember the uncanny resemblence to Steve, even at that young age. The celebration of the class of 1988's 20th reunion is this weekend. Steve's name will be mentioned in the roll call of deceased classmates spoken at our memorial service, however, we will all remember and honor the sacrifice made by your family.
Warmest regards,
Sam DiPaola
USNA 1988
Brian Schwenk
September 11, 2008
Darin, thank you, you are thought of often. Marylin and Devora, your sacrifice has been too great. This morning with my daughter at my side I lowered the flag in front of our house. One day, when she is old enough to understand, I will explain to her how I lived right next to a hero who gave his life, like his brother before him, in service to his country. I am proud to have known you Darin.
Michael Gibson
September 11, 2008
I served with Darin on the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower/CVW-7 in 1999 and 2000. He was a great officer and friend. I miss him a lot.
Angela Krozy (Pell)
June 10, 2008
We missed you & were thinking about you at Lee Steven's retirement party at Atholton High. You were always at the concerts & gigs!
Andrea (Comerer) Detar
June 6, 2008
I too have been thinking a lot about Darin as the reunion approaches. I graduated from high school with him and my husband graduated from college with him. We both feel incredibly lucky to have known such a truly nice guy at different times in our lives. We certainly plan to raise a toast to him.
Dena Gregory
April 5, 2008
Darin, you are in my thoughts and prayers as we plan our 15 year high school reunion. You are deeply missed.
Pentagon Memorial
Gregory Jajo
February 20, 2008
I served on board the USS Lexington during the fatal crash that claimed our shipmates and Darin's brother Steven back in 1989. Since that time I moved on from the Navy and joined the Army National Guard of Michigan. I was deployed to Iraq and was wounded from combat April 2006. I went on the tour for wounded hero's at the Pentagon in October 2007 and at that time is when I learned of the second tragedy to stike the Pontell family. I want to express my deepest heart felt sympathy to the Pontell family.
Bunny Orrender
November 24, 2007
I just wanted you to know that I still wear a bracelet that I purchased in memory of Darin from Memory Bracelets. My father was in the Navy during WWII, so Darin touched my heart. I hope and pray your family is doing well and please know that Darin is in many hearts. Sincerely,
Doug Abraham
August 31, 2007
Happy Birthday!!!
P Tabbernor
August 31, 2007
In remembrance....
Clark Troyer
May 28, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with your family this Memorial Day. It was a great blessing to know Darin, and most importantly be his friend. Although I was only fortunate enough to know him for a short period of time while serving together on the IKE and in Virginia Beach, I know what his family understood and felt - Darin was a beautiful person. Mini Me is missed immensely. Ollie
Carly Pontell
November 21, 2006
i love you sooo much uncle D you are a true hero r.i.p. we love you sooo much you were the best uncle ever and we will never forget youuu <3 true loveee i love you and you are the besttt
Kristine
November 1, 2006
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
LCDR Chris and Kimberly Anderson
September 11, 2006
Darin was a friend of my husband's. They went to Intel school together, were assigned to the same air wing, and were deployed on the USS Eisenhower together. Darin was Chris' best friend on the ship and helped him get through the long 6 months. We were horrified when we learned of the attack at the Pentagon, and we were absolutely devastated to learn that Darin was among the victims. Every September 11, we fondly remember Darin by listening to a CD that he made for Chris, and we pull out the cruise pictures (Chris is particulary fond of the pictures of them in Israel). Darin was a very special man, and we have thought of his family often during the last 5 years...you have all been in our thoughts and prayers and will continue to be throughout the years. May God bless you all...
Angela Krozy (formlery Pell)
September 11, 2006
We will never forget you and the wonderful person you were. Always in our hearts, Darin!
Boca Raton
May 17, 2006
My sincerest deepest sympathy.
The newly released video of flight 77 is traumatic. Incidentally, I visited the "Blue Ghost" last summer and was very surprised to see the taping of Darin's brother's jet crash onboard the Lexington. I had the honor of meeting Steve shortly before his untimely death. Although, very polite and humble, Steve mentioned that he was looking forward to his first landing on an aircraft carrier that had taken his life. It touches me to hear that following the death of Steve, Darin accomplished so much in honor of his fallen brother. Both of these brothers put on their uniforms and were ready to accept the unexpected with dignity. They both died with honor.
andre westbrook
April 1, 2006
We will always remember the friends we lost 9/11. Please keep Darin in your heart and prayers with the hope of seeing him again(Rev 21:3,4).
James Maroosis
July 24, 2005
I just wanted to take a moment to express my deepest sympathy to the Pontell family. Darin's loss has touched me for 2 reasons. I happened to be serving in the US Navy in 1989 and was on the USS Lexington the day we lost 5 shipmates including Darin's older brother Ens. Steven Pontell due to a crash on the flight deck. My heart still aches to this day about what happened on October 29, 1989 and the tragic loss my shipmates and I all felt. I will never forget those I knew who lost their lives. And now my heart aches more for I just realized the connection between Darin and Steven. In addition I have 2 little boys and can not imagine how much of a hole it would leave in my heart to lose them. My thoughts and prayers are with the Pontell family and all the families who suffered in these tragedies always and forever.
James
terry kulkin
June 16, 2005
Marilyn, michael, Devora and family--billy and i are in nyc and have visited the many memorials from the tragedy--just wanted to let you know steve and darin are always in our minds as well as our prayers to all of you
Kim Gillette
December 28, 2004
Dear Devora and family of Darin,
I only learned of your loss at our 10th high school reunion. I know the sadness I feel doesn't touch on your daily pain. My heart goes out to you.
RACHAEL WOLFE
September 7, 2004
I wanted to let Lt P's family know that I still think of him everyday. He was a wonderful officer and an amazing friend. My thoughts and prayers are with him and with his family and friends.
Crystal Thomas
September 11, 2003
Darin was a great friend many years ago in middle school. I never forgot him and he is truly missed. Even then, he was a person of great character, wisdom, compassion and integrity. He was truly special and my heart goes out to Devora and all the family and friends who were robbed of his precious light. We were blessed to have known him.
Amy Miller
September 11, 2003
You are forever in my thoughts, and your family forever in my prayers...
Sally Myers
September 17, 2002
As we all remember the terrible tragedy of 9/11 my thoughts and prayers are with you Marilyn and Gary.
Mike Gawlas
September 11, 2002
Darin, it was a fun four years at school, from doing crew plebe year to suffering through numerous comp sci classes. I'm in the airwing (CVW-7) that you were the intel guy for! We all miss you! I can't believe your gone!
Angie Baker
September 11, 2002
I must confess that I never met Darin. However, after knowing Devora in college for her to taken him as her husband he must have been a wonderful man. My thoughts and prayers have been with your family often in the last year and will continue to be. It is a blessing that we have families as courageous as yours in this country. Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Chris Robinson
September 11, 2002
Darin was a shipmate, a classmate, and a great friend. We were Comp Sci majors together at USNA. I remember the late nights we spent studying together. I cried when I heard about his death and when Lydia Duffey told me he was awarded the Purple Heart.
I will miss you my friend.
Rachel Turry
September 9, 2002
It has been many years since I lived just around the corner from your family in Arlington Heights, but some things leave an indelible impression...and the Pontell family did just that. May your memories of Darin and Steven be a comfort in times of sorrow, especially now, at the one year anniversary.
Teri Rexing
September 9, 2002
I am sorry what had happen you life togive you lots of love.
IS2 Nathan C. Morrow USN
August 31, 2002
Darin Pontell - you are a true friend and shining example. We will miss you. You always could light up a room - now as a shining star you will light up the world! I am greatful I had the opportunity to work with you and to know you.
June 12, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS WONDERFUL HERO..LT.J.G.DARIN HOWARD PONTELL AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS LOVING FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS..GOD BLESS AMERICA..MAY GOD AND HIS BROTHER STEPHEN GREET HIM AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN..THEY ARE BOTH PART OF HISTORY NOW...AMEN
Michael Iezzi
April 26, 2002
Father we entrust our brother Darin to your mercy. You loved him greatly in this life: now that he is freed from all its cares, give him happiness and peace forever. Welcome him now into paradise where there will be no more sorrow, no more weeping or pain, but only peace and joy with Jesus your Son, and the Holy Spirit forever and ever.
Lynn Bainbridge
April 19, 2002
My husband, Jaime,was the safety officer in VT-19 and was on the investigation team for Steve's accident. He is now a captain at United Airlines and recently learned from a co-pilot about Darin. We were both deeply saddened and cannot imagine what your family has been through. We both have thought of you often over the years and wish to extend
our deepest sympathy.
Lynn and Jaime Bainbridge
Marilyn and Gary Pontell
January 18, 2002
To all of our dear family and friends who have shared their thoughts and grief over Darin, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
Bunny Orrender
January 16, 2002
I am so proud to be wearing a Mercy Band bracelet honoring and in memory of Darin Pontell. My father was also in the Navy and I was always so proud of that. Having lost a son several years ago also, I understand your sorrow. I will think of you everyday as I wear my mercy band.
Teresa Jahn
January 12, 2002
Our hearts cry deeply with you in your great loss of Darin recently and of Steven earlier. We thank both of them with all our hearts for dedicating their lives to help protect America while in the military. Such a devotion to protect America comes with a brave, warm and caring heart. May their courage, life and love live on in all who love them. May golden memories of times together lighten the sorrow in your hearts. We are very sorry.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Jan and Zane Azbarea
November 1, 2001
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Myra and Marty Sack
October 22, 2001
Our deepest sympathies go out to you at this tragic moment.
The Sack Family
Sidney & Rosalie Kaplan
September 28, 2001
Rosalie & I were deeply touched upon learning of your tragedy. We remember Daren & Devora from Boca last year & prayed for him at Yom Kippur services.
Harleen & Jack Epstein
September 26, 2001
Dear Devora and Family:
We are grieving with all of you on the tragic loss of Darin. We know there are no words that can ease your pain. Our hearts are broken for all of you and our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Barbara Bolin
September 25, 2001
MY THOUGHTS & PRAYERS GO OUT TO YOU ALL.MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
LT.PONTELL MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.
Paul Herman
September 22, 2001
We were crushed with the news and have been thinking of the whole family constantly since. Our thoughts and prayers go out all of you.
Jo Anne Norton
September 21, 2001
No words can express my sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
judy and ned segal
September 20, 2001
our thoughts and prayers are with in your moment of grief. words cannot express our pain and sorrow for your loss
Heidi Ridgeway
September 20, 2001
Devora and family, I want to extend my prayers and thoughts to you all in this terrible time of mourning. I am thinking of you and with you in prayer.
Dave Merker
September 20, 2001
Our whole family was so sorry to hear about Darin. He was a very special young man with an exceptional amount of courage. We admired him a great deal for graduating from the Naval Academy and for doing so with such success. He will forever be a role model for our own sons. You will always be in our prayers.
Sincerely,
The Merker Family
Charles L. Fuller Jr.
September 20, 2001
My condolences go out to Devora and the Pontell family. Words can't explain my feelings. All I can say is the world is a lesser place now that Darin is gone.
Sara Duke
September 20, 2001
My thoughts and prayers go out to Devora and family. I am so sorry for your loss.
Sara
Angela Pell
September 20, 2001
May he rest in peace. Darin was going far in this worlld, very ambitious and intelligent. He longed to study at the USNA and follow in his brother's footsteps. He was a great friend.
Lauren Smith
September 20, 2001
This just stinks! I don't know how else to put it. No one deserved what happend on Sept. 11. As a member of Darrin's family, I grieve too, but I mostly think about his parents, brother, wife, and grandparents. I pray that they can grieve and grow stronger from all of this. I love them all so much.
Stacy Gensler
September 20, 2001
My heart felt condolences to you and your family during this tragedy. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Scott Roth
September 20, 2001
My heart and feelings go out to the Pontell family on this sad moment in their lives. As part of the family I feel deeply touch by his death. I wish all the best for the family.
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