DeVere Washburn

DeVere A. “Buzz” Washburn, a long time resident of Jacksonville, passed away April 2, 2013.   Born January 7, 1915, in Fredonia, NY, Mr. Washburn worked at the Alagany Steel Co., in Dunkirk, NY, went on to receive a Masters Degree in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Michigan.   He volunteered for the Navy in 1942, set up a shop in Pensacola, FL where he designed, developed and manufactured training devises for the Navy before retiring in 1946 as Lt. Cmdr.   He joined General Electric Co. in Erie, PA; was transferred to Atlanta, GA and later to Jacksonville, FL.   In addition to being an inventor, his hobby was to visit many countries around the globe.  He loved to share the life and culture of these countries with his friends.   His loving care for family and friends will long be cherished.   Buzz was preceded in death by Ann Colter Washburn, his first wife of 40 years, who lost a courageous fight with cancer and by Fenton McLean Washburn, his wife of 25 years, who passed away in a nursing home in Atlanta, GA.   Buzz is survived by daughters Ann Dana Mares, Susie Perakis and Christine Colter Washburn, sons James Nelson Washburn and David Albert Washburn.  He also has seven grand children and eight great grandchildren.   Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice.   Arrangements are under the care and direction of Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home of Mandarin, 11801 San Jose Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32223.  www.hgmandarin.com (904) 288-0035.