Lt. Commander Ronald James Vauk

Lt. Commander Ronald James Vauk

Ronald Vauk Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Sep. 17, 2001.
On September 11, 2001; RONALD JAMES, LIEUTENANT COMMANDER U.S.N.R. died at the Pentagon while serving as a Watch Commander at the Navel Command Center. Beloved husband of Jennifer M. Vauk (nee Mooney) of Mt. Airy, MD; devoted father of 3 year old Liam and yet to be born baby; devoted son of Hubert and Dorothy Vauk of Nampa, ID; brother of Charles, David, Gary, Dennis Vauk, Teri Masterson, Celia Shikuma, Lynne Caba, and Patricia Vauk; son-in-law of Carol and Patrick Mooney, brother-in-law of Alissa and Chris DeBoy. Ron is also survived by 18 nieces and nephews. Friends may call at the Sterling-Ashton-Schwabb Funeral Home, Inc., 736 Edmondson Avenue (1/2 Mile West of Beltway Exit 14) on September 26 and 27 from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 PM. Mass of Christian Burial and Interment at Arlington National Cemetery Chapel on September 29 at 12:45 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Ronald James Vauk Memorial Fund c/o 1st Mariner Bank, 1801 S. Clinton Street, Baltimore, MD 21224.

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August 5, 2019

Someone posted to the memorial.

July 2, 2019

Someone posted to the memorial.

December 12, 2017

Del Newberry posted to the memorial.

August 5, 2019

Hey ronald,
A pair of senseless tragedies struck US soil this past weekend. All the victims in El paso & Dayton joined you in heaven....
Just a sad world we live in.

July 2, 2019

In lasting memory of Lt. Commander Ron Vauk.

Del Newberry

December 12, 2017

Thank you for your service to our country. I pray today for your family and friends as they still cope with this great loss. Much love from Texas,

Tom H

September 6, 2017

Today, 09/06/2017, it is an honor to remember you Ron. Thank you for your service. We will never forget.

Sara Samul

September 11, 2015

Remembering you and your family today, 14 yrs later. We'll Never Forget.

Cathy Knight

August 30, 2015

I found a bracelet with his name on it in my Mom's jewelry chest today. She must have been praying for your family as I will continue to do. She's been gone almost 7 years and I've been through the chest many times before.

Sara Samul

March 27, 2015

I wasn't one of the lucky ones that had the honour and privilege to have known Ron in person. But reading through all of the heartfelt messages left by family, friends and strangers alike shows just how special Lt Commander Vauk was and continues to be.
That said, in December 2001 I had the privilege to meet Ron's wife Jennifer and his precious little baby girl Megan. This beautiful little angel who will learn about her very Brave Daddy through stories and memories from her big brother Liam, Her brave momma, pictures and the memories of family, friends and complete strangers.
I hope each day the pain becomes less and less. That the void grows smaller and smaller as time passes. I don't now if anything has changed, but I remember that some of Ron's features could be seen on the face of his little girl
I think of Rom every time I pass NHS, his tree is beginning to wake up for Sprng. I wish your family love and prayers, healing energy and too tell you that Ron will never be forgotten, EVER!

Randal Baker

September 11, 2011

I've been watching the memorials for the 10 year anniversary this morning. In a way, this guest book has been a personal way for me to deal with the tragedy. I believe this guest book has served purpose for many others as well. Thank-you Ron, for being such a great friend during my life. I will never forget you. Thank-you for your sacrifice to our country. I wish the best for your family. God bless you, Jennifer.

Scott Loga

September 7, 2011

A true American hero.

Kathy Dempsey

September 6, 2011

Jennifer and family, I see the Pentagon and Arlington National outside my office daily. A day doesn't go by that I don't pray for you and Ron. Ed and I visit him and others in Arlington often. Hugs and know we're here.

Ed Haynes

August 31, 2011

I was a few years behind Ron at the Naval Academy but knew him from my Plebe year company. His family is in my prayers and I wish them the best in the years to come.

Steve Parker CPO, USN Ret.

August 31, 2011

Jennifer,
Although I never met your husband, I will never forget him or you and your family. I hope you, your children and parents are doing well.

Kevin Clinch

May 1, 2011

To the family,

I've kept one of Ron's business cards with me since 11 Sept. After I retired from the Navy in 2005, I felt an empty feeling when the bombings in London happened knowing there was nothing I could do. When I was offered a government job back in the office I retired from, I jumped at the opportunity. Day after day my office coordinates the Navy decisions on who, when and where Navy forces are deployed to execute the war on terrorism. Tonight we heard Osama bin Laden was killed, but this fight is not over. Nor will we forget Ron and those who perished with him.

Peggy Childers

September 9, 2010

To the family of Lt. Commander Ronald James Vauk:
Ronald 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

Tim Wright

August 16, 2010

Ltjg Vauk as I remember him aboard USS Glenard P. Lipscomb was always a man you could count on to just be a person you could talk to, I will always have good memories of him.

John Kusik III

October 25, 2009

Jenn,

It has been a long time since that day, but that does not mean that I will ever forget the friendship that I shard with Ron, you and kids. I am having a lot of difficulty putting into words all my feelings of loss and sorrow, but the fact that individuals still up date this link is testomony to the admiration many individual's possess with regards to Ron.

Randal Baker

October 21, 2009

It's close to the end of 2009 and the memory of this tragedy still hasn't dimmed. The memory of Ron as a great friend hasn't dimmed. I keep Ron's name, age, and duty position at the Pentagon taped above my work desk. I see it every day. Others ask me what it means and it allows me to talk a little about my great friend and his sacrifice. Rest in peace my friend. I will not forget you. Randy

Patty Neavill

July 5, 2009

I wanted to share how Ronnie came up in a conversation at the end of this school year. I teach at West Middle School in Nampa, Id and the kids were kind of messing around during the pledge allegiance after the moment I sat them down and told them how important it is to honor our flag. They kind of blew me off and I finally shared my feelings of the flag that hangs in my classroom. I told them that Ronnie and I had went to school and that we were classmates and every time I look at that flag I think of Ronnie. As the flag hangs in my room it looks like the flag that hung over the outside wall of the Pentagon after 9/11. The kids never messed around again. Having Ronnie in my life allows to me to continue to teach the kids of our future. Ronnie you'll never be forgotten.

Doug Abraham

January 25, 2009

Happy Birthday!!!

Linda Lawhorn

September 11, 2008

Jennifer,
I knew Ron when we worked together at COMSUBLANT with LCDR Preston, and LT Jerry Shedd. Ron and I used to disagree about our assets we had to report to the Admiral. He always told me "they were in the mail" I never trusted the mail. He was quite a charactor but very professional. I am thankful that I got to work with him and I am so glad you have such an extended family. You and your children are so blessed!

Doug Abraham

January 25, 2008

Happy Birthday!!!

Dorothy Vauk

January 2, 2008

He knew me when i was a baby,but i wish i knew him a little more. I wish i met him when i was a little older.I'm the 11 year old Dorothy

JOSHUA KLINE

September 11, 2007

I MAY BE DONT KNOW YOU BUT WHERE YOU AT NOW IS A BETTER PLACES YOUR FAMILY MISS AND KIDS STAY UP

Kathy Dempsey

September 11, 2007

Jennifer, Ed and I said a prayer together for you, Ron, and your lovely family. We still look at photo's from past Wardroom gatherings and smile at the wonderful times we had and to this day relive with big smiles and laughter. May God keep you safe and know your are in our thoughts. Love and hugs, Ed and Kathy Dempsey

P Tabbernor

August 31, 2007

In memory....

Jan Wright

September 12, 2006

Ronald Vauk will be remembered as a hero as he faced an unbelievable horror along with thousands of other heroes. We will never forget the people who died on September 11, 2001.

Linda Ford

September 12, 2006

I can't believe it has been 5 years. My heart goes out to all of the Vauk Family. I pray that God's comfort, strength and peace be with all of you.

HM3 Selya Eve Hudman

September 12, 2006

Best wishes and out thoughts and prayers are with you. NBHC La Maddalena, Italy.

Darla Portillo

September 11, 2006

I worked with Ron at RSIS and I didn't even know he passed until recently. I worked in the Contracts Department and Ron worked in the Business Development. Ron and I had many conversations and we would argue and discuss our different views. I always enjoyed him and he was a great man and even though I never met you or your family, he always talked so highly of you. I have a family of 4 and my twins were small at the time and I just remember him and I talking so much about our families. I am so sorry to hear about Ron and I am more sorry to know that I didn't know that he passed during these last 5 years.



I can only hope that the pain that you are your family are feeling has lessened.

Stephanie Jocums

September 11, 2006

Dear Jennifer,

I'm one of the crazy crowd from St. Paul's in Nampa that grew up with Ron. We had a big group of friends in our high school years that really got us all through those times, group "dates" to dances, etc. In senior year, Ron and I were voted "most intelligent" together - though I personally think he should have also gotten a special award - "most mischievous!" I cherish his memory and smile every time I think of him - except knowing that he is gone. I hope that this anniversary of his death finds you strong and in the loving arms of your children. Bless you.

Patty Neavill

September 10, 2006

To the Vauk family:



I went to school with Ronnie clear back at St. Pauls Elementary. Yes, he is still Ronnie to me. He was certainly a special person who was very smart and had a wonderful sense of humor.



I find myself going by St. Pauls and thinking of the days when we were kids and all the fun and tears we had together making it clear to the sixth grade.



Ronnie was dearly loved by many who considered him a friend and it is very hard to forget how speical he was.

Bianca Maldonado

September 1, 2006

I am sorry for your lost. He looks like a good man, and I know his family misses him deeply. The world lost thousands of wonderful people that day. It what not their time to go, none of them. They were suppose to go when God wanted them to go, when they were ready, when they were in their old ages. Ronald will never be forgotten, none of the people that lost their lives on that day will be forgotten. They will stay close to our hearts. Let history not repeat itself, we can not lose anymore love ones.

Mark Brownell

February 28, 2006

To The Vauk Family,

I will remember Ron foundly, I was a friend of his when he served on The USS Davidson (FF-1045). He was with me when I met my wife. Even though it has been nearly 20 years since I had contact with him, I will always remember his sense of humor and his friendship.

Mark Truman

October 7, 2005

God be with you young man, rest in peace, with all our love from the UK, we will never forget you, and the hunt will go on, the USA and the UK are as one.

Mark.

Celia Shikuma

March 15, 2005

As I read these beautiful tributes to my brother Ron, I am moved to tears. He was a true hero in the eyes of his family and friends. We still mourn his loss and miss him profoundly.

Randal Baker

October 8, 2004

To the family of Ron Vauk,

I was on my way home when I paused and happened to think of Ron again. I miss seeing or hearing from him. He was my best friend while growing up. I still can't believe he is gone. It's now over three years and I find myself thinking of him more often. Time has moved forward. The memory hasn't dimmed. I miss you, Ron. God bless your wife and children.

Randy

Tom and Margaret Banks

September 18, 2004

To the Vauk family - We proudly chose a flag that was displayed in honor of Lt Cmdr Ron Vauk at Vacaville's Healing Field on Sep 11th, 2004. We will be presenting it to our son who is serving in the Air Force at Mt Home AFB, Idaho close to Ron's home town. Although we did not know him, Ron's sacrifice has made an impact on our lives and we will continue to keep your family in our prayers. May God continue to pour His blessings on you.

Jared Vauk

September 14, 2004

Another year has gone by; three since my uncle's death. I remember my favorite uncle as young Navy man in a pressed White Uniform. I remember being tickled to tears.

I remeber sipping on his beer as a teenager at a baseball game. I remember him joking with my dad proding him into a passionate debate. I remeber his tranquil demenor vailing the mischievious intentions to invoke passionate responses from my family members. No one was safe from his good natured pestoring. I remember the ease I felt in his presence. I loved you Ronnie.

September 11, 2003

Jennifer and family,



I thought of you this day and visited Ron's tribute site once again. I know that this has been more than difficult for you. Please know that the prayers of your friends and acquaintances have been with you every step of the way.



September 11, 2003

Kelley McManama

September 11, 2003

To Ron's wife Jennifer:

I think of you all often. I have since heard that you and Ron had a baby girl. I know Ron would be so proud of her and her big brother Liam. May you know that you are in others thoughts always and that you are wished the best.

David Dyke

September 11, 2002

I was profoundly touched by what I have learned about Ron and his family. It is clear he was a gifted and honorable hero. Simply serving, doing his best, loving his family above all things. I was given his name to wear as a rememberence of 9/11, it's an honor I hold very dear.



Thank you Ron.



God Bless his family, and America.



If you would like to learn more about Ron, there is an excellent write-up on the Arlington Nat'l Cemetary site, http://www.arlingtoncemetery.com/rjvauk.htm

HUNTER MATASSA

September 11, 2002

JENNIFER,



I THINK OF YOU TODAY AS I WATCH THE 9/11 TRIBUTES ON TV. I HOPE YOU AND YOUR FAMILY ARE WELL, AND HOPE TO BE ABLE TO TALK TO YOU SOON. TAKE CARE,



HUNTER MATASSA

Frank Griffin

September 8, 2002

I did not know Lt. Vauk, however he died a hero standing at his post that terrible day. I believed God welcomed him with open arms.

God bless him and his family.

Frank Griffin

Dona Aston

September 7, 2002

My thoughts and prayers go with you.

Margaret Scherer

September 1, 2002

May God give you an extra measure of His Comfort as we approach the first anniversary of this horrible tragedy.

June 11, 2002

MAY THE BEAUTIFUL SOUL OF LT.COMMANDER RONALD JAMES VAUK AND THE SOULS OF ALL THE FAITHFULLY DEPARTED THROUGH THE MERCY OF GOD REST IN PEACE AMEN...

May 16, 2002

DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS BEAUTIFUL YOUNG MAN..LT.COMMANDER RONALD JAMES VAUK AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS LOVING FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS..GOD BLESS AMERICA ..NEW YORK AND WASHINGTON D.C...MAY JESUS AND HIS SAINTS GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AMEN

naomi vermette

April 18, 2002

Dear family of Ronald James Vauk, Ihave been given the privilage of wearing the name of your loved won on my wrist thanks to a Mercy Bracelet. This I wear proud and remember and pray for all those he has left behind . God Bless all of you and my prayers will continue for you. Naomi Vermette

Cindy Downs

February 12, 2002

I worked with Ron at APL. Believe me when I say we miss him everyday. He had an exceptional sense of humor and made me smile on many occasions. You are sorely missed my friend. May God protect you and your wonderful family...your daughter is a beauty and you'd be so very proud of her (as you were with Liam). We miss you.

Sonny Masso

February 7, 2002

Ron,

You were on watch in the Navy Command Center serving as the Navy Department Duty Officer during the most horrendous tragedy in our nation's history. You made the ultimate sacrifice for your country. I am profoundly proud of you and your magnificent service to our unit and to our country. You will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, shipmate.

"Skipper"

Teresa Jahn

January 12, 2002

We thank Ronald for dedicating his life to help protect America while in the Navy. Such dedication to others comes with a warm brave and caring heart. We are deeply sorry for your loss of Ronald. Our hearts cry with you.

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

Anesa Cronin

December 17, 2001

I am proud to wear my mercy band bracelet bearing your husband's name. I am sure you are a wonderful woman...and mother. Thank you for the profile. Anesa

Janet Conner

December 3, 2001

Jennifer and family:

I feel your loss deeply as my son is also career Navy man and could have been there. I have Lt. Cmdr. Vauk's Mercy Band and will be praying for all of you daily. May God bless and comfort you.

Jan and Zane Azbarea

November 6, 2001

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.

Anita Beno

October 6, 2001

TO THE ENTIRE VAUK FAMILY:

Words alone cannot express the grief I feel at the thought of your loss. My son is also a Lieutenant Commander in the Navy so I guess I sort of feel like family too. May God bless and strenghten you and yours.



God Bless America!

Shirley Lloyd

October 1, 2001

I work with Dennis in Houston. I am so sorry to hear about Ron. My husband is a retired Lt. Cmdr, USNR. so I sort of feel like family. May God give you strength and surround you with love.

Terrie Schafer

September 28, 2001

God Bless all of you at this most difficult time. Ron will never be forgotten.

Chris Salter-Witmer

September 25, 2001

I guess I'm a distant relative and I really didn't know him but I would like to extend my heartfelt sadness to what must have been a wonderful man. My mother (Elaine Fitzpatrick-Salter)is a relative of Pat Mooney and she told me today about the commander. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you and your family.

Chris Salter-Witmer

Bobbie Plymail

September 25, 2001

God bless the family and friends of Lt.Commander Ronald James Vauk. America is praying for you.

Russ, Ruth and Rachael Strasburger

September 25, 2001

Jennifer, Liam, and family,

You all are in our thoughts and prayers. Although we've only known you and your family for 3 years, Ron was a wonderful man and a great father - we have truly lost a great hero to our community and Country. God bless you all.

Barbara Bolin

September 25, 2001

MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO YOU ALL.MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL.

LT.COMMANDER VAUK MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.

Kelley McManama

September 24, 2001

Just a note to send my deepest sympathies to Ron's wife Jennifer and all his family members. I worked with Ron at Delex Systems. Although I haven't spoken with Ron in several years I was very saddened to hear of what happened. Ron was a good person with a good sense of humor.

Deborah Richardson

September 24, 2001

I worked with Ron during his employment at Delex Systems. I will really miss his unusual sense of humor.

David Sheehan

September 24, 2001

As President of the Village Gate Community Association, I offer you and your family the condolences and heartfelt sympathy of all of your Village Gate neighbors. You have been, and will continue to be, in all of our thoughts and prayers.

Weeta White

September 24, 2001

My thoughts and prayers are with you. Sincerely, Weeta

Randal Baker

September 24, 2001

Jennifer,

God be with you and your son Liam. I cannot express how deep my sympathy is for you at the loss of Ron. He was a great man and father. He was a great friend. I'll miss him the rest of my life.



Randy

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August 5, 2019

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December 12, 2017

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