Captain Donald Hull-Ryde, USN Retired, 77, passed away peacefully on September 07, 2009 at The McGraw Hospice Center. Surrounding him during his last hours were his loving wife of 55 years, Gail and three of his children. Donald was born and raised in Long Island, New York, where he graduated from Oceanside High School in 1950. He then enlisted in the United States Navy and became a sonar instructor until 1953 at which time he began his great adventure of carrier aviation. His 33 year career includes two tours in the Gulf of Tonkin aboard the U.S.S. Bon Honne Richard as executive and commanding officer of the VA-144 Roadrunners, flying the A4 Skyhawk. His family enjoyed his assignments in Quantanamo Bay, Cuba, Subic Bay, Philippines, and Naples Italy, as well as many duty stations in the states. During Captain Hull Ryde's career he was the recipient of numerous medals including the Bronze Star and Distinguished Flying Cross. Upon his retirement from the Navy, Don graduated from the University of North Florida and taught Economics and History at Middleburg High School. He enjoyed his second career as much as all of his years as a pilot. He is preceeded in death by his parents Edward and Irene Jensen Hull-Ryde and his brother Edward Hull-Ryde. Don is survived by his wife Gail Dunlpo, of Atlantic Beach, daughter Catherine, sons Ted ( Janet ) of Grapevine, Texas, Bret of Naples Florida and Gregory ( Leslie ) of Bowie , Maryland. His sister Shirley Sanchez of Plymouth, New Hampshire, six loving grandchildren and many nephews and nieces. Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Wednesday, September 09, 2009 at Hardage-Giddens Chapel Hills Funeral Home. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 AM, Thursday, September 10, 2009 at the First Christian Church of the Beaches. Graveside services will follow at 2:30 PMM, in Jacksonville National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family respectfully request donations to be made to Hospice Foundations 4266 Sunbeam Road, Jacksonville, Florida.
Florida Times Union, Sept 8 2009