Jeffrey C. Metzel Jr. passed away peacefully from heart failure in his sleep, in Huntington Beach, CA, April 17, 2016. Jeff was 90 years old. Jeff ("Mike" to close family) was a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland, as was his father and grandfather. Jeff's class was very accomplished, with fellow graduates President Jimmy Carter, CIA head Stansfield Turner, Joint Services Chief William Crowe, ADM James Stockdale, Capt. Thomas Hudner, and many others that uphold the great tradition of the Naval Academy. Jeff became a Submariner and was picked for ADM Rickover's Nuclear Power program. He was very proud of being part of this new technology and the people associated with it. Jeff served aboard several Nuclear Submarines. But, his favorite assignment was as Commander of the Nautilus, the first Nuclear Submarine and the first practical use of Nuclear Power. After helping to develop the Mark-48 Torpedo and serving as a project manager on the Trident Submarine program, Jeff retired from the Navy as a Rear Admiral, in 1979. Jeff married Jean Roberta Balcome in Las Vegas, in 1952, he said it was the best gamble of his life! They were together 62 years until, Jean passed away in 2014. They had four children, Bill, Bob, Nancy and Mimi. Jeff and Jean had seven grandchildren and so far, four great grandchildren! Jeff is survived by his three younger siblings, brother Bill Metzel, and sisters Martha (Patty) Mohler and Mary Popper. He had a long and wonderful life and felt very lucky for all his experiences. He was deeply loved by all and will be sorely missed. A Memorial Service will be held May 7, 2016 at 10:00 AM, at The WWII Submarine Memorial located at 800 Seal Beach Blvd. in Seal Beach. Instead of flowers, Jeff would appreciate a donation to the Navy - Marine Corp Relief Society.

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