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BORN
1935
DIED
2019
MARY CALENE Obituary
MARY LOU CALENE Captain, USN (Ret) March 10, 1935 ~ May 23, 2019
It is with great sadness the family of Captain Mary Lou Calene, United States Navy (Retired) of Springfield, Va. announce her passing after suffering the ravages of dementia for over a decade. Her importance to our family, her friends, in and out of the Navy along with her service and dedication to our country is immeasurable. Mary Lou was born March 10, 1935 in Santa Monica, California the only child of Edwin L. and Wauneta T. Calene. Upon graduating from the University of California - Los Angeles with a major in Sociology, she entered the United States Navy in 1957. It was rare for women to join the Armed Forces at that time let alone make a career of service. She served 28-1/2 years during which time she obtained the rank of Captain and earned the Navy Achievement Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal and the National Defense Service Medal. During her service she also attended the Naval Postgraduate School where she obtained a Master's degree. Mary Lou was preceded in death by her parents and two special cousins, Charlotte C. Dean and Camilla C. Griffin. Mary Lou is survived by numerous extended family and very close friends. Among the family are Penney B. Kronenwetter (Steve). Their children Kelly K. Grainger (Billy), Katie E. Kronenwetter, Joseph M. Kronenwetter and fiancé Becca Ball. Close friends and fellow Service Members include Doris Vail, Captain, USN (Ret) and Helen Hardbower. In accordance with her wishes Mary Lou will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery with full Military Honors on November 1, 2019 at 1 p.m. To honor her distinguished Military career the family is extending an invitation to anyone who wishes to attend. Memorial contributions can be made to the charities of one's choice or to the Smithsonian Institute of which Mary Lou was a lifelong supporter.
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Memories and Condolences
for MARY CALENE
1 Entry
N. S.
October 29, 2019
My deepest sympathy to the family of Mary Calene. May you be comforted in knowing that our Heavenly Father cares for you. He will give you strength and courage to cope with your grief. Psalm 94:17-19
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