News of the quiet and comfortable death at home of EARL E. "WOODY" FORREST, Class of 1947, was circulated on May 27, 2000 to his classmates by JOE GERSON: "Our shipmate...has departed for the great Maritime Academy in the Sky. A fine cadet with many varied interests, he graduated from NYSMA with highest honors, receiving a $50 Savings Bond for 'Proficiency in Electricity.' And as the years rolled by, his warmth and friendly personality enveloped all who knew him. Even the Deckhands of '47 drew close to Gene, Earl, 'Woody'...whatevah ! His style and personality no doubt brought him to the post of Senior Vice President of New York Electric and Gas Corporation."
"Woody served as an Engineer aboard two C-3s, S/S MORMACSTAR and MORMACGULF, and on a C-2, S/S ROBIN TUXFORD. On more than one occasion, aboard BOB FRANZBLAU's boat USMTS VICTORY, he regaled us with tales of his days in the Merchant Marine. He loved 'The Academy' and like many of us, credited his success ashore to the nautical education received at NYSMA, and aboard the T/S EMPIRE STATE."
Woody, who died of liver and kidney failure, will be buried at the Lakeview Cemeter in Watkins Glen, NY, his hometown, at 2PM on June 3. Joe writes, "His choice was cremation, a graveside service, and insistence on a 'party' afterward at his home." [For more information call 607-546-2404.]
Joe concludes: "An Officer and a Gentleman .. we snap off a smart salute to our pal, Woody... and the beat goes on ! Checking compasses frequently and steaming smartly as before. Joe 'The Hawk.'"
FMSAA