I am saddened to now learn, Mr. Catlett has passed.  He was the sole survivor of the helicopter crash that took the life of my cousin, Robert (Bobby) Colatruglio, AC Alex Spence, and Joseph Lutz of UH-1C 65-09454.  May you rest in peace sir.

Gary was a unique character. He did not follow many of the conventions that society and ourselves impose upon us. One reason that was so, perhaps, was his experience as a combat veteran in Vietnam. Gary did two tours. His first was brought to an abrupt end when the Huey gunship upon which he was the crew chief, slammed into the ground at 100 plus miles per hour, at the bottom end of a rocket run. Gary was the only survivor, and he was horribly injured. After almost a year of reconstructive surgeries and much urging to take a medical retirement, Gary refused to quit and went back to Vietnam for a second tour. His Vietnam injuries ultimately contributed to his untimely death. During the remainder of his life after Vietnam, Gary lived a somewhat unconventional lifestyle, not settling down for very long in any one place, or holding any one job for any length of time. I am convinced that his experience taught him, as we said in Vietnam, "don't sweat the small stuff- and it [was] all small stuff!" Though unconventional, Gary was a good person who never did anything mean or with the intent to hurt anyone. There was not an evil bone in his body! He was fun to be around, always interested in everything, unafraid to try anything, quick to laugh and very much dedicated, in his own way, to his family - Wilma, Liz, Ted and Caroline. He was a good friend. He leaves behind one daughter, and many people whose lives he touched. We shall all miss him.

 I’m am saddened to here my stepfather has passed away. He entered my life when I was five and stepped in to take care of me, love me and help me grow.  He was a great stepfather and very kind. I will miss him. Love you Dad! 

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OBITUARY

Gary Lee Catlett

2 May, 1950 – 5 February, 2021

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