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William Devens Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for William Devens
Jim Hardwick
September 20, 2025
From 1971 to 73 when I was graduated, I worked for Col Devens as a student assistant for 2 years while he "commanded" the Dept of Engineering Fundamentals. His facade of Army gruff took me a bit to get past, but then I realized that his character of concern and thoughtfulness went way beyond the surface. Reading this obit gave me even more insight to add to my fond memories. Funny story: he had trouble keeping up with his keys because he did not like carrying them in his pocket. Clarice Williams, my immediate boss and his trusted office manager (referred to as secretary but her capability and role far exceeded that title) whispered to me once that it was because he thought the big ring of keys in his pocket made him look heavy. ROFL now thinking about that, as my own concerns due to my senior status settle in. He was a delightfully one of a kind. God bless and keep you, Col Devens!
Sharon Outlaw
April 28, 2008
Dear Col. Devens-
A stroll down memory lane with the Sawyer girls and Dad- Berlin was a test of the soldier's soul..and his dependents. Russian/East German guard towers in every direction. Remember the sedan rides into the Russian sector "to prove our access" and passing through Checkpoint Charlie. Then the big spruce-up of paint, window flowerboxes and special projects in getting ready for Pres. J.F. Kennedy's arrival (I am a Berliner). The President's seal was lost and the Engineer sign painter quickly made a new one. Every problem and every solution ended on the Engineer's desk. Well done. Essayon.
It has been a privilege to call you friend.
George Sawyer and his daughters:
Sharon, Sandy and Susan
Ray Tansey
April 26, 2008
Uncle Pat always used to say keep
the faith. Love to all the Devens from
Memphis and whats left of this clan.
George (Buzz) Sawyer
April 25, 2008
We stood side by side in Berlin when the Russians tried every trick in the book. Stienstuken,Galinika bridge and the shipping fiesco tried your every nerve and honor and duty and country.. I am poud to have served with you. Love,peace and compassion ,always. Essayons. Buzz. Lt Col. Corp of Engineers
How you can show support
April 24, 2008
Be thou at peace!
Richard Tarantin
April 21, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief.
Please accept our deepest sympathies,
Richard Tarantin & Team Tarantin
Scott Moir
April 21, 2008
I'd like to offer my condolences to the entire Devens family. I was an EOBC student of Tim's back in 1985 and after reading about his father I now know why Tim was such an outstanding officer. My prayer's are with you during this difficult time.
Emory Maxwell
April 19, 2008
Jamie,
While reading you Dads obituary I was amazed at his life. A true man of charactor. You and your siblings had a great example.
The Majerowicz's
April 18, 2008
Diane, we were so sorry to hear about your dad - it was so by chance that Beth called you that Saturday. Please know our prayers are with you, your mom and the whole family. God Bless you all.
Stephen, Beth, Chris, Erin and Megan
Evelyn, Harold,Tim and Andrew Williams
April 17, 2008
Dear Mary and Family,
We are so sorry to hear of Bud's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Kelly Lochart
April 17, 2008
Dear Mrs. Devens & Family, I wish to express my deepest condolences and sympathy for the loss of Mr. Devens. Though I never had the personal pleasure of meeting him, it is so evident that he left behind a life of servanthood and good citizenship to his family and his country. His life was filled with a consumption of love, laughter, pain, sorrow, and many other emotions most of us may never even experience in our lifetime. I am blessed by the relationship I have been able to establish with Mrs. Devens, and I pray God's deepest and most gracious comfort keep you during your time of loss. Much love and many blessings.
JANICE HODGE
April 17, 2008
DIANE, OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY DURING THIS SAD OCCASION.
YOUR FRIENDS FROM THE CLASS OF 1976 - BHS
Loretta Buffer
April 17, 2008
Dear Mary and family, Jim and I are very sorry to hear of Bud's passing but rejoice with you in his entrance to heaven to pray for all of us still on earth. We will ask our son to offer a Mass for the repose of Bud's soul. Please accept our sincere sympathy and prayers.
Love, Loretta and Jim
Sally Barnett
April 17, 2008
To the family of Bud Devens - he was a great man with a goal in mind - protect our country and family. While at Virginia Tech - to serve! He will be missed by all who knew him.
Debbie Atkins
April 14, 2008
There are not enough words to say how sad and well as happy to hear of Bud's passing. I am so happy he isn't suffering but at the same time we have lost a great man. I have known Bud since 1979 and this was not enough time for me but I am blessed for not only knowing him but also for knowing his family. All of you are so special to me and I love each of you as well as your families. Please do not hesitate to call on me if you should ever need anything or if I can do anything for any of you. My prayers, thoughts, and heart go out to each of you.
With all of our love and respect,
Debbie and T.J.
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