Leon John "Jack" Pingel

While I was growing up with Maile and Lee Ann, I often visited the Pingel house. I enjoyed my conversations with Jack and laughed a lot. I looked up to him and made me feel like a little adult. He will be missed.

Jack was always one of my mentors and role models as I moved up the ranks behind him. We served together at FWC Pearl Harbor when he was Operations Officer, where he taught me to write "We believe..." rather than "We feel..." ! As XO at (now) FNMOC in Monterey, CA, he often cleared the way to help me succeed in my own job when success was not always guaranteed. Fair winds and following seas, Jack, and my deepest sympathies to Helen and family.

I only learned of "Jack"'s passing when discussing the sad news of the recent death of my other XO at Fleet Numerical, Captain Dean Morford's, death with Carl Thormeyer. To say that the arrival of Captains Hughes and Pingel at the then FNWC were a breath of fresh air would be a serious understatement. One of the first questions Captain Pingel asked me was if anyone had made me an honorary member of The Naval Weather Service yet and, of course, no one had.

Later on, I was thrilled...

Captain Pingel was the finest Naval officer I knew. He and his wife Helen were examples of how a Navy couple exemplify family life in the military. He taught me a lot about how to respond logically and socially. I miss him.

Rich and Helen Kelley

Maile, back in college we were introduced to each other by my brother, Mike O'Toole. I now live in La Quinta and just happened to recognize your father's name in the newspaper. I wanted to send you a note to say I am thinking of you at this difficult time. On behalf of myself, Mike and the entire O'Toole family, we send our best to you and your family.

Jack was a great leader, personal confidante and my close friend throughout both of our Naval careers. I shall always remember and cherish his leadership as COMNAVOCEANCOM during a particularly challenging period for our Oceanography/Meteorology community. He remains in my prayers now and forever! James E. Koehr. Rear Admiral, USN (Ret)

Our friendship with Helen and Jack was very special. We fell ao fortunate to have enjoyed trips, family gatherings and their love. We miss Jack. Roger and Dodie

Jack Pingel and I served together when I was the Commanding Officer of the Fleet Weather Central Guam and Jack was the Executive Officer. I could tell that Jack was destined for higher responsibility. Not only was he bright and talented,but also a wonderful person. I would also like to thank Helen for all her help to the command.

Captain Jack was a fine leader and Skipper(FWC Rota). He taught me a lot; was proud to work for him.