Tom Thompson received word today from a Vietnam hootchmate of his and Kevin's that Kevin had died yesterday - May 29. In phone calls from Tom and from me, Linda confirmed what Tom had heard and elaborated on the circumstances, saying he had died while doing work he was proud of doing: mowing his large lawn behind a classic push mower. Kevin had been experiencing Afib and had been being treated for it, and yet ....

Kevin and Linda's daughters are with her and offering great comfort. Arrangements are yet to be made, but Linda promised to keep us informed in whatever ways she can. In our conversation, she noted how much his Marine Corps experience and friends, from our midshipman days onward, and TBS in particular, "energized" his life. I told Linda that Kevin had done the same for me, as my roommate in Basic School way back when, with his participation in B Company activity, and frequent phone conversations and email exchanges. I know I will miss him. Kevin's entry from our 2016 Reunion Cruisebook is below.

Finally, I lift my Tun Tavern beer glass in a toast to "Traindog" and his memory.

Semper fi, Andy V.

Kevin's Celebration of Life is set for June 28 in Twin Falls. Kevin's obituary: