On Monday, June 13, 2005 at his residence in Alexandria, VA, DOUGLAS MICHAEL KENT II. Beloved husband of Sharon K. Kent; loving father of Megan A. Kent and Douglas Michael Kent III, both of Oberlin, OH; devoted son of Catherin Osborn of Casselberry, FL. He is also survived by his sister, Michelle Sandvik of Winter Sprins, FL; brother, Mark Osborn of Bremerton, WA and his grandmother, Sophie Haleftiras of Casselberry, FL. Private services are planned. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made in memory of Mr. Kent to the American Cancer Society, 124 Park St. S.E., Vienna, VA 22180 or Community Hospice of Virginia, 520 N. Washington St., Suite 400, Falls Church, VA 22046.
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Cynthia Mitchell
August 13, 2005
Michael,
An officer and a gentleman. It describes you well. I hope by now you have seen Mitch. He thought a great deal about you and your enthusiasm about joining the Navy and becoming an officer.
I will miss your mother telling me about your calls to her. They were the greatest enjoyment you could have given her.
You are well and at peace now. No more suffering, now that you are home with God. You take care and I'll see you soon.
Aunt Cynthia
Heidi Beavers
August 12, 2005
Just yesterday we were laughing through the halls of Waterford High School...throwing rocks on the train tracks...and bopping eggs at Easter.. today you fly with the Master...while we wait...and miss you...for a moment's time is a lifelong glance..and a glance today is eternity tomorrow...until we see each other again...for eternity's glance.. missing you always...your cousin..Heidi
Tom Stanton
July 18, 2005
I met Mike at SPAWAR many years ago and our paths crossed again when he returned to the Washington, DC area. Mike was a professional who I am very fortunate to have met and work with. Mike was also a friend who will be missed by me and many others whose lives he touched.
Douglas Kent
July 9, 2005
Dad,
Unfortunanteley all of your pain and suffering had to end this way. But at least you aer no longer in pain or suffering. I didn't get to spend as much time with you as I would have liked. I really didn't get to know you for the person you were. Because you spent most of your time worrying about my feelings and about my emotions. So for that i would like to thank you. I appreciate the lessons you taught me. Hopefully I can use later on in my life. I will always love and remember you.
Your Son,
Mike
Guy & Connie Stewart
July 4, 2005
Michael was a devoted son, grandson, brother, husband, father, and uncle who cherished his family. His smile could light up a room and he will be missed by all of us who had the honor of knowing him.
Sandy Daniels
June 28, 2005
My deepest sympathy for Sharon and Mike's family. I had the privilege of meeting him here at OPNAV and was impressed by his energy, intelligence, honesty and humor. He is a true example of grace and strength, inspiring us to remember what's really important in life.
Patrick Madden
June 24, 2005
Sharon and all Mike's Family-I didn't know Mike well but the times we talked were always good. He always listened carefully, and with his thinking cap on. After his many treatments and his coming back to work, I wasn't always certain what to say because I didn't know what to say to someone with such day-to-day, unassuming, modest courage. It was my mistake as he, I have no doubt, always accepted all comers, all questions, all concerns. About a month before Mike died we did talk some more and I found it hard to comprehend his calmness--something I could not do. Since that time and his death, I sometimes ask myself what should I take from his life? To contribute something everyday? To hope? To believe? To live life every minute to the last minute? All of these, certainly, but something more I find very hard to put into words except that, somehow, the whole of Mike Kent, was greater than the sum of all his great parts, and as each day went by, he grew more and more, and we tried to keep up. So, to me, he is alive in a way I can't see physically but he is there, in thoughts when we least expect, with words of quiet encouragement and that smile of his. I don't think anyone here will every forget him. Sincerely, Pat Madden
Saundra Franklin
June 23, 2005
My heartfelt sympathy to Mike's family. May God give you comfort in your loss. You have many, many wonderful memories that will live forever in your hearts.Each time you look at his children you can see that Mike does live on.
Susan Loving
June 23, 2005
While Gene and I only knew Mike for a short time, we had the priviledge of living next door and more importantly, attending his marriage to Sharon. Even in that short time, I came to admire him for his strength and determination. His love for Sharon is strong and true and will remain for ever. My sincerest condolences to Sharon, April and to Mike's entire family. He was a good man and will be missed.
Susan Loving
J.J. Shaw
June 22, 2005
Mike was one of those rare Naval officers who understood information technology and the importance of satellite communications for operational forces. He helped make the U.S. Navy relevant in Joint and Coalition operations. Mike's devotion to his family, friends and the Navy was inspirational. He always approached every task with that famous "can do" attitude Naval officers are known for. He was a good friend, compassionate colleague and hard worker who knew the technical to the strategic issues regarding Naval communications. He will be missed, but not forgotten. Our prayers and thoughts are with his family and those whose lives Mike has touched.
Sincerely,
J.J. Shaw, CDR (Ret) USN
Heidi LaFountaine
June 21, 2005
Michael,
I know you through your mom and even though I have never met you, your strenth and courage has been an inspiration to me. I thank you for that. (1Thessalonians 4:16-18)
Megan Kent
June 21, 2005
Dad,
There are so many things in life that you have taught me. Some of which I never understood until months ago, and some a week ago. Letting go is hard because we were only beginning to get closer than we have been my whole life. But I am glad that you went and you went with your head up. No one ever deserves that kind of pain and I must say that I am so very proud of you for holding your head up. This is a lesson you have taught me that I hope one day I will pass on to my family. I promise to you that that family will know who you are and they will be learning some of the same things that you have taught me. Thank You to Sharon and Grandma for all of their love and help, to you and Mike and I, through this time of trials. Thank you to everyone for showing my family great kindness and a lot of support.
I Love You Dad, and Happy Fathers Day. Say hello to everyone for me.
Love,
Your Daughter,
Megan
Mary Goins
June 20, 2005
Michael, I know you only through your mother. I am her friend and co-worker. Your accomplishments are many and your strength and will amazing during your battle. You accomplished all God wanted from you in a short amount of time. You were an inspiration to all you touched. You have earned this time to rest. You will be greatly missed by all that knew and loved you, but the angels are rejoicing. We who remain can only anticipate and long to join you in eternity. God Bless.
Sophie Haleftiras
June 18, 2005
Dear Michael,
A trip to visit you in the near future. I'm looking forward to it. Just think, we can make Koulourakia together and I can show off my culinary achievements. Is heaven cold? You know I'll bring along an afghan or two. Keep a light in the window - I'll be seeing you. Love Grandma.
John-David Occhialini
June 17, 2005
I have this to say to my Uncle... Thank you for all of my best moments in life, shared only amoung three men, riding the open hill and straight roads. Thank you for a standard you set only by your acheivements and acomplishments. I only hope I can fill the shadow. Your loving Nephew.
Capt Bill Hardy
June 17, 2005
Mike,
It was a privilege to have known you and to have worked with you. You were the consummate professional, totally dedicated to helping the Fleet, and you were a true friend. I will always remember our discussions of the relative value of “Tubes vs Skimmers” and I will miss you hearing you on the phone.....even though I was down the hall, talking to some poor Army or Air Force Major and saying “Well Let Me Tell You About It!” It was an honor to call you Shipmate.
April Jenkins
June 16, 2005
It's hard not to ask why God felt he needed Mike more, but it's easy to be thankful for the time he was here. I am thankful for the way he loved my mother, and kept her alive inside. I will miss the sarcastic jokes about my cooking, even though he would always manage to eat what I had cooked, and the comments on my driving, even though he would still ride in the car with me. Thoughts like these and many more, I will remember forever... Mike will be remembered forever.
Mary Kay Chester
June 16, 2005
Having been adopted in the family many years ago, I also feel a void, Michael. Your sprit will remain amongst the family gatherings, however, our pain will be visible whereas yours has cessed to exist. I thank God for that. Watch over your Mother and keep her safe and well. God bless the rest of the family and help them through these healing times. Until our paths cross again....
Steve Sandvik
June 15, 2005
Mike over the years since I have joined this family we have experienced a lot that life has to offer, I know you to be a good son, father, husband, brother, and friend. I will greatly miss our conversations about cars and motorcyles. Until we meet again your loving brother in-law
Cassandra Sandvik
June 15, 2005
My Uncle Mike was the best uncle and loved to listen to me talk. It broke my heart when he went to heaven. Your loving neice
Michelle Sandvik
June 15, 2005
I walked a mile of memories with my brother, he chattered all the way. Leaving me none the wiser for all he had to say. I walked a mile of sorrow with my brother, never understanding why he lays to rest. Until we meet again... Your forever loving sister
Jeffrey M. Schweiger, LCDR, USN (Ret)
June 15, 2005
I didn't know Mike as well as I would have liked, but valued his friendship, counsel, and courage. My deepest prayers and condolences for Sharon and the rest of his family.
Rest easy and go with God, my friend. We have the watch.
JANET HARVICK
June 15, 2005
THERE ARE REALLY NOT MANY WORDS TO SAY,BUT IAM SO SORRY. TO THE FAMILY OF MIKE. I ONLY KNEW HIM FROM TALKING OVER THE PHONE AND HE SEEMED VERY CARING AND LOVING FOR ANYONE HE MET. I KNOW HE LOVED MY SISTER DEARLY AND THEY WERE MEANT FOR EACH OTHER. I AM GLAD THEY HAD THE TIME TOGETHER THE LAST FEW YEARS. MY HEART IS HEAVY FOR KAY,AS WE CALL HER AND I HOPE SHE CAN FEEL OUR LOVE OVER THE MILES FOR HER AND MIKE. OUR PRAYER ARE VERY MUCH WITH THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS WHO WERE SO CLOSE TO MIKE. GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU AND FIND PEACE AND COMFORT IN HIS MERCY AND GRACE.
LOVE YOU, JANET,CURTIS,& CODY
Steffnie Singleton
June 15, 2005
My heart goes out to you and your family, I have known Mike and Sharon for several years and they are very good people. Keep your chin up Sharon God will reward you for your patience and standing by your husband. Love you guys.
Steve Martin
June 15, 2005
Mike worked for me for a short while when I was stationed at SPAWAR, and I was privileged to work with him again years later at OPNAV. He was an amazing guy...uncompromising, professional, dedicated...and always right. We all looked at Mike as an example of what a Naval Officer should be. He always told it like it was, even if it meant he was going to take flak for it. I am going to miss him.
CAPT Steve Martin, USN
Ned Bagley
June 15, 2005
Son, Brother, Father, Husband.
Sailor, Chief Petty Officer, LDO.
Shipmate, messmate, staffmate.
Friend.
When you see a dolphin jump, when you hear a whale "whistle", when you smell the ocean, when you feel the salt spray, think of Mike and smile. We are all better people for having enjoyed his company, his wit, his dedication, his intelligence, his passion, his friendship, even if for only a few minutes or days or years.
We miss you, Mike.
Be good but BE.
Rus Jones
June 15, 2005
I had worked with Mike for several years, he really knew his business, spoke his mind, cared about others and was a true friend to all of us who knew him. I'll carry his memory forward. Rus Jones
Michelle Kearney
June 15, 2005
To Mrs. Kent and all of Mike's family, I offer my condolences. It was a great pleasure to know Michael Kent. I didn't work with him, but every morning when I arrived in the office, I passed by his desk and he always says a friendly, Good Morning no matter how bad he felt...Mr. Kent will always be an inspiration to me.
Ted Eisenman, RMCS(SW) (ret)
June 15, 2005
Mike was one of a few Naval Officers who remember where he came from and put zeal into his everyday service to the Navy. Even in his recent days, his can do attitude speaks volumes about his character and morals. I am honored to know him, to work by his side, and to be influenced by him. My thoughts go out to Sharon, may you have the strength to endure this time of grief. May the many happy memories comfort you.
Mike Minahan
June 15, 2005
My heart felt condolances to Mike's family. I worked with Mike for a while on the OPNAV staff. Mike was a true professional and always had time to answer questions or offer his guidance when needed. I was lucky to have work with him and am greatful to be able to call him a friend. Thank you Mike for all for all your help and wisdom.
Andy Riddile
June 15, 2005
Sharon,
As you wait, know that "...He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away." You and Mike have served your country well. God bless you and all others who love him, Andy and Rita
Thomas Earl Locke
June 15, 2005
Mike,
Mike was very helpful person went I talk to him. He alway give me a right answer to my problem. Some time he come answer me a question from my desk. I will miss he very much. To Sharon Kent I'm sorry about you lost your husband.
Thomas
DOROTHY NORWOOD
June 15, 2005
MIKE WAS A VERY CARING COMPASIONATE
PERSON. HE WAS A VERY DEVOTED PERSON TO MY DAUGHTER AND WE LOVE HIM.
Ron Honey
June 15, 2005
It was my honor to work with Mike for many years at OPNAV. He was a true professional who kept all of us in line and accepted every challenge head on. He will be sorely missed and fondly remembered.
My deepest sympathy to the Kent family.
Robert Wagner
June 15, 2005
My condolences to all of Mike's family. If there ever was a man that all of us should strive to be, Mike was the one. As a fellow Mustang, I know our ranks have thinned by one that is sorely missed and cannot be replaced.
Mary Craddock
June 15, 2005
I would like to express my sympathy to Sharon and the Kent family. I've had the pleasure of working with and knowing Mike, for a number of years. Having to sit across from Mike in the work space, and not once did Mike complain about his illness, made you respect life all the more. I truly enjoyed his presence each and every day. Mike was very humble and kind to anyone who knew him. He will surely be missed! It's nice to know we have one more Angel to look over us. God Bless you Mike Kent!!!
Bob Putzer
June 15, 2005
To Sharon and Mike's family my deepest sympathy. I worked with Mike for many years...he will be missed. God Bless!
Sharon Lacks
June 15, 2005
Sharon/Family -
I only had the pleasure of working with Mike for 2 months after joining the OPNAV team; however, I was greatly impacted by Mike's determination/strength.
My prayers and thoughts are with you.
J. L. K. 'Cork' Corcoran
June 15, 2005
Mike was a one-of-a-kind guy. In the office he was the consummate professional with broad knowledge and expertise who we depended on daily to tackle and solve hard problems. He was also an easy-going, fun-loving, inspirational guy with a great sense of humor. Most of all he was a good friend who made each day brighter when he was here; we will all miss him.
Dan Quiles
June 15, 2005
My condolences to Sharon and the rest of Mike's family. He was an ouststanding officer in the United States Navy it was a honor to work with him. God Bless
Sharon Kent
June 15, 2005
Only once in your life you find your soulmate. Michael touched my heart like no other. He took a part of my heart with him and it will be with him always. I only wait for the day we can be together again. He taught me how to be strong and face many challenges. I only pray I can get through the hardest challenge of all. To our family and friends - we thank you for all your thoughts and prayers. Michael's devotion to his family, friends and country will always be remembered. To Michael - I will love you always.
Love, "Me"
Paul Rosino
June 15, 2005
I always respected and thought highly of the LT. He was always a stand up person who cared about the Sailors in his charge. Sharon my thoughts and prayers are with you at your time of sorrow.
Catherin Osborn
June 15, 2005
A third of my heart is gone. You will be with me forever. I am grateful that you no longer have pain and wait till we meet again in eternity. Your forever loving Mother.
Ron Williams
June 15, 2005
My concolences to the Kent family. I work with Mike in the mid 90's when he was at SPAWAR.
Sailor Rest Your Oars.
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