Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Captain Gerald Francis Deconto
Captain Gerald Francis Deconto
Obituary
Guest Book
Gerald Deconto Obituary
Gerald F. DeConto, 44
was Navy captain, Mass. native
By Globe Staff, 9/21/2001
Navy Captain Gerald F. DeConto of Alexandria, Va., was killed during the terrorist attack on the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., on Sept. 11. He was 44.
Captain DeConto was born in Halifax. He graduated from Sandwich High School in 1975, where he was an outstanding soccer and basketball player. He was also active in the Boy Scouts.
In 1979, he graduated from the US Naval Academy with a bachelor's degree in physics. Upon receiving his commission, he attended the Surface Warfare Officer School in San Diego before reporting to the USS Excel as a damage control assistant.
From 1982 to 1984, he served on the USS Fresno as an operations officer. He earned a master's of science degree in mechanical engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, Calif., in 1986. He was assigned to the USS Hewitt, where he served as chief engineer from December 1986 to July 1989.
He also served as executive officer of the USS Lake Erie and commanding officer of the USS Simpson. He also was chief of staff for Standing Naval Force Mediterranean from April 2000 to May 2001.
Captain DeConto was assigned as director of current operations and plans branch for the Navy Command Center at the Pentagon in June 2001.
In addition to his extensive Navy activities, Captain DeConto enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, sailing, biking, shellfishing, skiing, and running with his dogs.
He leaves his mother, Patricia L. of Sandwich; two sisters, Dale K. Choate of Mashpee and Marie DeConto-Thomas of Forestdale; and two brothers, David J. of Sandwich and Raymond E. of East Lynne, Conn.
A memorial Mass will be said at Corpus Christi Catholic Church in Sandwich at noon on Sept. 29. Burial will be at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Anneva DeConto-White
September 11, 2024
Never forgotten.
Anneva DeConto-White
September 11, 2021
You are in our thoughts and always in our hearts. The impact you made in our lives continues to this day. You are missed by so many. You will never be forgotten.
Jonathan Dachos
September 8, 2021
Miss you so much. One of your favorite spots for you on this week of remembrance.
Cindy Roe
September 7, 2021
Remembering Gerald on the 20th anniversary of 9/11...
How you can show support
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
MR & MRS EDWARDS
January 23, 2021
TO HONOR YOU GERRY IS TO HONOR ALL OF OUR PATRIOTS . . . WE SEE YOU
THANK YOU GERRY FOR ALL OF AMERICA !
Anneva DeConto-White
September 11, 2020
Gerry you are always remembered on this day and everyday. You are missed.
September 9, 2020
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Rick and Val Cazabon
January 19, 2019
Gerry lives on as we still share our memories of his strength, love and service to others. He made friends all over the world. We were so fortunate to have known him. Love to his family from "the Canadian troopers".
Anneva DeConto White
September 11, 2017
You will never be forgotten.
Anneva DeConto
September 11, 2016
Thinking of you today and everyday. You will never be forgotten.
Paul Faulkingham
September 11, 2016
We miss you Gerry! Sharing meals and stories at your old table with Pat O'Kane makes the memories more special!
Ed Molloy
May 25, 2015
He was our XO on the USS Lake Erie commissioning crew.
Proud to have served with him
Fair Winds Sir
Del Newberry
February 16, 2015
My prayers and thoughts go out to the friends and family of Capt. Deconto today. As we watched the 40th anniversary of Saturday Night Live, it reminded us all of that horrible day that we will NEVER forget. Much love from the state of Texas.
Mike Ashby
September 13, 2014
I am retired USAF and rode in the 2 Million Bikers to DC rally on 9/11/2014 and proudly wore "CAPT Gerald F. DeConto, USN" on my leather vest. God Bless you and your family.
devin stallings
September 11, 2014
thanks for serving are country I am wrighting an easay on u
Jerry as USS Lake Eries XO days before the maiden voyage arrival to Pearl Harbor
Paul Faulkingham
November 18, 2013
Mrs CS2 Scott Lewis
September 11, 2011
We still you remember you Captian Deconto and never will forget. Even though my Husband was the one that served with you On the USS Simpson, I was able to meet you through him. I thought of you as a Strong, Caring man that put his crew first. God Bless you and Fair winds and Following seas.
Anneva
September 10, 2011
Always in my thoughts and prayers today and every day.
a. jeffrey
August 26, 2011
thank you for serving our country im doing a poem for school about you.
Sam Stuart
December 20, 2010
I remember Mr. DeConto fresh from the Academy. he eventually became the Engineering Officer. He also swore me into a second enlistment in 1982. I mlost all track of him when I transfered to recruiting duty in 1983. I heard of his sacrifice a few months ago, and know he was at his station following the orders of the Commander in Chief. I am glad to see he got a command, I would have been proud to serve with him. My heart goes out to his family and friends.
Rachel Ambrose
September 11, 2010
God Bless Captain Gerald Deconto.
Anneva
September 11, 2010
never forgotten
Mark San Miguel
September 11, 2010
Have you and Anneva in our prayers every day.
September 11, 2009
Remembering all that was lost.Even today, Sept in 2009.We will never forget.
Peggy Childers
September 10, 2009
To the family of Captain Gerald Francis Deconto:
Gerald gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. My deepest sympathy to you. We must never forget!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Doug Abraham
August 17, 2009
Happy Birthday!!! Fair Winds & Following Seas!!!
Mark Siegrist
September 2, 2008
I served with Captain Deconto (then a LCDR) as part of the precommissioning crew of the USS Lake Erie. I always respected and appreciated his leadership.
Mark Siegrist, FC2 (Ret.)
Gerry in his Stateroom on USS Lake Erie 7/93
January 28, 2008
Anneva
September 11, 2007
I miss you. Thinking of you today and every day.
Debbie , Kenny Coffey
September 11, 2007
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
P Tabbernor
August 23, 2007
In remembrance....
joseph ragle
August 18, 2007
I served aboard the USS HEWITT in the oil lab and officer Deconto was my CHENG great guy always new how to bring the best out in his crew. I'm proud to be able to say that i served with a true hero. Every 9/11 i will always remember CHENG and how proud and dedicated he was of his country. Rest in peace.
BE JUST AND FEAR NOT.
Scott Lewis
April 12, 2007
It was a plaesure an Honor to work along side you Captain. I never heard you complain once about the food. Rest In Peace. Fair winds and Following Seas.
Kristine
October 31, 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.
James Little
October 18, 2006
God bless you sir and your family from a proud shipmate aboard the great U.S.S. Lake Erie
Paul Faulkingham
September 20, 2006
God bless my good friend. We had great times on the Mighty USS Lake Erie and even better times during your tenure as CO on the USS Simpson. I cherish your friendship, good times with a martini, cigar and friendly bantering over a game of pool.
j b
September 11, 2006
On the first anniversary I planted and orange tree in his honor.Today, I participated in an online tribute, telling my readers a little bit about him. Capt. Deconto, or as we knew him at the Naval Academy, "Fish," continues to be sorely missed by all of us.
Dave Rice
September 11, 2006
Remembering a great XO onboard the USS Lake Erie (CG-70).
Kathy Swaringen
June 22, 2006
on June 22, 2006, 1 mile was walked to honor the life of Captain Gerald Francis Deconto and all those who loved him. May you find some comfort in knowing that you do not grieve alone. Know that you and your loved one have not been forgotten.
Gerald, may you rest in peace.
Joseph Wood
May 29, 2006
Memorial Day and I learn the one officer who for me exemplified the highest ideals of the USN was killed on 9 11.
I served aboard the USS Hewitt for for 5 years from 1982 to 1987 and was led by many fine officers. When I recall those years and the people who had a strong influence on my life since then one I routinely thought of first was Captain Deconto.
Rest in Peace
James Phillips
February 1, 2006
My heart dropped when I found out from my Hewitt shipmates. Your leadership, wisdom, and compassion still serves as a guide to me. Thanks Cheng from your Disbo on the Hewitt
MR2 Conover
January 1, 2006
Fair well and following seaas Shipmate.
USS Lake Erie.
Wanda Janus
August 20, 2005
I came across this site while looking for the site about the annual 5K fund-raiser. As the anniversary of that fateful days draws near, I can't help but think of the friends I lost. Although I never knew Capt DeConto, I had the privilege of escorting his family when they came to DC for the official ceremonies in Oct 2001, and for their visits after that time. A generous, warm and loving family, they somehow found the strength to carry on and still worry about how much sleep I was getting while taking care of them. They conveyed to me the essence of Gerry in such a way that I feel his loss without ever having known him. Today, I am working in support of the Navy SEALs. We proudly, yet quietly, dedicate ourselves to making sure Gerry and others did not die in vain. When we endured the tragic loss of 11 SEALs recently, Gerry's Mom immediately expressed her desire to do something to help. What a great lady she is! To his family, I can't wait to see you again. You are often in my thoughts, even tho- I don't call as often as I probably should. I know you will take strength from the many thoughts and prayers that come to you. Til we meet again....
Rob LeBrun
April 19, 2005
Everyone that knew Capt. Deconto will agree that while onboard the USS Simpson, the 'cap was fair, honest, honorable, and quite the BBQ chef. He will be forever honored and missed.
During our last trip to sea before his departure, he came into Sonar late one night while I was on watch. After a lengthy discussion about the Red Sox and Patriots, his reason for the visit came out. He knew of my desire to attend college when my EAOS was up, 5 months after his departure, and asked me how the process was going. Having been out of school for over 7 years, and not having a recent SAT score, I "hinted" that a letter of recommendation from a US Navy CO would surely help my chances for acceptance. He said that he would gladly write a letter for me. As his departure neared, he was very busy getting the Simpson ready for deployment, and my letter must have been put on the back burner. After he left, I thought I would never get the letter. 2 months after his departure, I received a manilla envelope containing the best letter of recommendation I have ever read, with a handwritten note;
"Betcha thought I forgot you! Sorry for the delay, still getting settled in over here in Europe. Good luck in all that you do. GF Deconto."
I can honestly say that his letter allowed me to attend Florida Atlantic University, earn my bachelors degree, and in two weeks, graduate with an MBA in Int'l Business.
True to his word, and a pleasure to serve under.
Rob LeBrun
CAPT Michael A. Van Horn, USNR, USNA '79
March 1, 2005
I am very proud to have known Gerry when we were both much younger and without a care in the world. Gerry's outrageous sense of humor and healthy perspective on life were a joy.
I joined the navy so that I could work with terrific people like him.
As the years went by, I watched in admiration as Gerry's career in the U.S. Navy took off; I always knew that I could learn a thing or two about service, dedication and leadership from Gerry.
I miss Gerry and pray that his wonderful family finds peace.
Take care shipmate!
Omnes Viri,
Mike
daniel call
October 14, 2004
I served aboard the uss hewitt in the ic shop during his stay as chief engineer. I recently discovered about his death on sept 11.Just as everyone else,i am shocked as to the passing of a former shipmate. This only brings home the unltimate sacrifices one can give to their county and the good feeling i can have about serving my country with this person.everyone who joins knows the risks involved and accepts the facts that this can happen,but it doesnt make it any easier to take. my condolenses to the family on their loss of their loved one.his sacrifice will not make 9/11 a easy thing to put in the past.
Tina Lewis
September 12, 2004
My husband served under Captain Deconto aboard the USS Simpson. Simply said...Fair Wind And Following Seas.
Anneva DeConto
September 9, 2004
As the third year of 11 Sept approaches, I have Gerry in my thoughts constantly. I was very lucky to have been married to him for 12 years. Although divorced, we were the best of friends. I admired Gerry for his knowledge, his charity to friends and love of Anabelle and Luke (and John Tyler too). I was constantly amazed at the depth of his skill as a Naval Officer, knowing the entire mechanisms of USS Simpson, from the very top to the very bottom. He was so very, very proud to have been the Commanding Officer. Then there was his funny side, imitating the "balance beam routine," his best was "Betty Grable." I can still see him doing that silly stance and laugh with him. I miss him with all my heart. There is never a day that goes by that I do not think of him. I will forever be grateful to have had such a special person grace my path.
David Silver
May 16, 2004
I am very sorry to hear about Captain Gerald Francis Deconto death in the 9-11 attacks. I was a sailor on the U.S.S Simpson during 1995-1996. I have a great deal of respect for all who served upon this GREAT UNITED STATES OF AMERICA WAR SHIP and the Armed Forces. God Bless you Captain, We will be with you forever. QMSN David Jason Silver
Ed Clark
December 22, 2003
To all the friends of Gerry Deconto we have lost a good one, I was Lt(jg) Decontos relief on Excel and he was one of the finest that I have ever served with. Our Nation is poorer for his passing, may his family find peace in the years ahead. All of our Very Best Ed and Alison Clark USN Ret.
Ken Newton
September 11, 2003
Capt. Deconto, your the best XO any sailor could have. I served under you on the Lake Erie. We had some good times during precommisioning, especially the Lobster Bake and the Lobster Stew you whipped up at 2am for all the guests who wanted breakfast. Thanks. My prayers go out to your mother and family who I know miss you dearly. Rest in Peace. Very Respectfully, GSM1 Newton(ret.)
REX BELL
February 16, 2003
I WAS LOOKING UP THE USS SIMPSON, MY FINAL DUTY STATION WHILE A TM IN THE NAVY AND CAME ACROSS THIS MEMORIAL. I HAD KNOW IDEA CAPTAIN DECONTO WAS LOST IN THE ATTACK ON THE PENTAGON. I WAS SHOCK, AND I THOUGHT IT WAS APPROPIATE TO SIGN THIS PAGE OUT OF RESPECT. FAIR WINDS AND FOLLOWING SEAS.
Lawrence Petrowicz
December 15, 2002
Sir,
I want to thank you for being a very good Commanding Officer aboard the USS Simpson. I also thank you for my first Navy Achievement Medal. As I work through Navy SEAL training, the picture of you pinning my NAM on me hangs proudly and gives me fight each day to help get through training. Thanks again.
Donald Pong
September 13, 2002
Gerry, I never knew why they called you FISH at the USNA because I never asked my brother. I remember when you used to come visit the family when you were stationed on the West Coast. One time in particular was on Christmas day. I have fond memories of the time we went skiing at Lake Tahoe. My family has a lot of cherished memories of you as well. May God grant you fair winds and a following sea.
Rita Reid
September 12, 2002
May God grant the family and friends of Captain Desanto Peace.
Lisa Miller
September 11, 2002
I wore a mercy band today that had Captain Deconto's name on it. I came across this site as I was trying to learn more about him. I prayed specifically for his friends and family today- that they might find peace and comfort despite their loss. From what I can tell, this man was truly a good, caring person who touched the lives of many. In Christ, Lisa
Joseph Scarpa
September 11, 2002
Gerry,
Thanks for your mentorship onboard LAKE ERIE ... and for teaching me how to cook lobster ....
jacob yurisich
September 10, 2002
Befor 9/11 i wanted to joine the armed forces i had no reason now i have a damned good one way becuse i just got to know capt.deconto so now when people ask way i want to serve it is not just fro the capt but for all those who served to fight for my fredom becuse they were the wons who stued on the wall when no one else would and siad rest your hed wile i give you a blanket of fredom
USS Excel in Puget Sound circa 1980
Gary Locke
May 15, 2002
I served with Capt. Deconto when he was an Ensign and my Engineering Officer aboard Excel. I remember him as a very good officer, intelligent and fair. I was a EN-2 in charge of A-Div. and Top watch. I remember that you always wanted to do a good job because you didn't want to disappoint him.
N Dantzler
April 25, 2002
May God Give you Peace...
Sheila Werland
April 24, 2002
Thank you Captain Deconto for your service to our country and for the sacrifices you and your family have made over the years. For this ultimate sacrifice, I can not begin to desribe what I feel. I pray for your families healing and believe you are still keeping watch over them. Peace be with you and yours.
Mark Harvison
April 11, 2002
CPT Deconto,
Your service to our country will not be forgotten. Rest in peace, Sir.
Ron Hood, EWCS(SW)Ret.
March 11, 2002
To the Captain's Family,
I served with Gerry in the early/mid 90's as part of CCG-7 Staff. He was a true professional and will be missed by all of his past shipmates. God bless.
Pam Oldham
March 11, 2002
Hi - I worked with Dale & Dave years ago and I just wanted to let you know my thoughts are with you and your family.
~peace~
pam
Sonny
February 7, 2002
Gerry,
I miss you shipmate. Knowing you all these years and finally working with you in the Command Center was fantastic. Rest in peace my dear friend.
Gordon Rheinstrom
February 7, 2002
A true friend and shipmate. He will always be remembered by those with whom he served.
Jennifer Dorais
January 24, 2002
I have a mercy band that bears Captain Deconto's name. I kept looking at it today and thinking about his family and what he was like. It was strange almost like I in a way now know a part of him. God be with his soul and his family.
Teresa Jahn
January 12, 2002
May Gerald's enjoyment of biking, running and skiing, his life and love continue living in you. May the sorrow in your hearts be lightened by the warm memories of times together. We are deeply sorry for your great loss of Gerald. 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
Stephen Saucier
December 31, 2001
To the family of Captain Deconto,
I too am Navy having been in 18 years so far. I have not served with your son/brother but I am sure it would have been a pleasure. Rest assured, we will get Justice for our lost shipmates. V/R MMC Saucier
BEAR HASTINGS
November 22, 2001
Captain - Remembering you when you served as Executive Officer, USS LAKE ERIE at Bath, Maine. We have built eight Aegis Cruisers, and twenty-three Aegis Destroyers to date, and remember well our Navy crews who passed our way. Our hearts go out to you, and your family. Sleep well, our Captain, the watch is set, and you have done your duty...we will continue the watch, and keep the faith with you.
I am sure every Sailor at Sea on every ship will work to settle the account on this matter in your name...Sailors stick together, and in many ways you are always with us.
Take care Shipmate, and we render our final salute in your memory.
Bear and all the Northrop Grumman - Information Technology formerly LOGICON-SYSCON) staff at Precommissioning Unit Bath, Maine.
Jan and Zane Azbarea
October 24, 2001
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Christina Tossell
October 5, 2001
I hope this encourages the family of Gerald that we are praying for them in their time of grief.
We Remember You
We remember you in your anguish and pain,
knowing that in this life you'll never see your friends or loved ones again.
You'll never see their precious smile or feel the warmth of their embrace,
or hear the laughter in their voice or wipe a tear from their face.
We remember you in the days to come when reality sets in,
that there'll be an empty place in your home and heart where your loved ones should have been.
Yes they should have been there in your life,
to share your joy to share your strife;
To share your laughter to share your tears,
to share your dreams through the years.
We remember you in our thoughts and prayers
And to let you know that somebody cares.
Yes we care that you are lonely and blue,
So we are sending this hug especially for you.
We pray you find peace from the Lord above,
And that He will surround you in His love.
We pray you'll have the strength needed to go on,
To prove to the enemy that they have not won.
And when the hurting comes anew,
Please know in your heart that we remember you.
Christina Tossell
Sydney Australia
Barbara Bolin
September 24, 2001
MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO YOU ALL.MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
CAPTAIN DECONTO MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.
Dan Ring
September 19, 2001
Capt. DeConto was an excellent athlete and student at Sandwich High School and hailed from a tremendous family that brought so much joy to everyone who knew them. I played Babe Ruth baseball with Gerry and remember his steady play at third base and his professional attitude. We also had a lot of fun together. Gerry was also smart and caring. I know all his friends in Sandwich are heartbroken. All our prayers go out to the family. I fell out of touch with Gerry after high school, but I will always be grateful for having known him. He was a special individual.In giving his life for his country while in the line of duty, he performed the ultimate act of patriotism.
Showing 1 - 75 of 75 results
Make a Donation
in Gerald Deconto's name
How to support Gerald 's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Gerald Deconto's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
Sponsored