Samuel J. Croft

Born on January 28, 1923 in Ft. Meade, FL he was the son of John and Nora Croft.

Mr. Croft’s life was devoted to serving his country and providing for his family. He served valiantly in the United States Marine Corp. and survived the battle of Iwo Jima, going ashore on day 1 of the invasion and not leaving until the battle had been won 36 days later. He returned home in 1946 where he built a career in the citrus industry. He was an active member of the Vero Beach Marine Corp. League.

He is survived by his 5 children, Samuel Croft, Melvin Croft and wife Kathy, Gail Winer and husband Rick, Julian Croft, and Beth Dozer and husband David; grandchildren Kristopher Croft, Nicholas Croft,Melissa Croft, Samuel Winer, Hank Winer, Hana Winer, Tyler Croft, Jordan Croft, Justine Davis, Stephanie Dozer, and Matthew Dozer, he was predeceased in death by 2 sisters, and one brother and is survived by siblings E.C., Edna, George and Mark.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, September 10, 2010 at 10:00am at Ryanwood Fellowship Freewill Baptist Church, 2196 54th Ave., Vero Beach, FL, followed by a military service held at Memorial Island in Vero Beach, FL. He will later be laid to rest at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens, 6026 N. US Highway 1 Fort Pierce, FL.

In lieu of flowers, please make any donations to VNA Hospice, 901 37th Street Vero Beach, FL 32960.

Arrangements are under the care of Aycock Funeral Home, Fort Pierce, FL.