Gordon Kimmey

KIMMEY, Gordon Gene, 75, of Valrico, Fla. has gone to his heavenly Father on July 30, 2004. Kimmey was born on July 23, 1929 in Van Wert, Ohio. The oldest of four children born to Ernest and Hesper Kimmey, his parents and sister, Celie, have preceded him in death. He joined the U.S. Navy and proudly served for 23 years. He rose to the rank of Chief Petty Officer Hospital Corpman. He is a Vietnam Veteran. In 1970 he was in charge of the X-Ray Department of the Naval Hospital in Da Nang. For over 9 years while stationed in Bethesda, Md., he was an instructor at Tacoma College, with an average class size of 40 students. He taught the latest procedures of X-Ray and Radiology. While he was stationed in Maryland and teaching classes, Kimmey also earned his college degree, with honors in Business Administration. After his retirement, Kimmey moved to Tampa. He was the assistant to Dr. William Maxfield for three years. He also headed the X-Ray Department. Kimmey retired again after ten years of servi ce with the state of Florida Prison System in Zephyrhills. He was in charge of the X-Ray Department. He was a Master Mason of Petworth Lodge #47 since 1971, member of the Scottish rite of Free Masons, 32nd degree and a member of the 1st Church of God. Since their first meeting at Bill Deery Pharmacy in Van Wert, Ohio, it was love at first sight. After a very short courtship, Violet Wheeler married Gordon on November 9, 1960 in Portsmouth, Va. They have been inseparable since that date. During all their trials and tribulations, his most loved and devoted wife, nurse and best friend, has never left his side, especially in the last eight years. This is a love story that has come to an end, but will never be forgotten. He leaves behind his loving wife Violet M. Kimmey; an "adopted daughter and son" Nancy and Michael Gooding of Valrico. His "grandchildren" Carolyn and Janalee and "great-grandson," Delton. They will miss "Dad." He also leaves behind a brother, David; and sister, Ruth. Both are fro m Ohio. A special thank you to "his girls" from Brandon Regional Hospital for their kind and gentle care over the past few years. To his fine doctors, who have helped him, especially in the past eight years, a heartfelt Thank You. To honor Gordon's wishes, there will be no services. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the American Cancer Society in Gordon's name. Hillsboro Memorial F.H