William John Lent

Married to Audrey (nee Olsen) for 67 years, Bill was a lucky man. He and Audrey raised four wonderful children in Shoreham, NY where they loved swimming at the community beach on the Long Island Sound, camping and simply enjoying life. Tim (Sandi), Sharon Geib (John), Susan Matura (Jerry) and their youngest, Michelle Lent, always looked forward to spending time with their dad. He loved beautiful music and treasured holidays with the family. Dad’s Christmas tree was a sight to behold.

He was the adored grandfather of six beautiful grandchildren, who were a huge part of his life and grew into adults that made their Grandpa so very proud: Jennifer Lent Stark (Mike), Tara Lent Rodriquez (Will), Amy Geib Mucaria (Joe), Matthew Geib, Michael Matura and Ashley Matura. He was blessed with four great grandchildren and was ready for a visit and a hug from Justin, Anthony, Skylar, and Sal. With video and movie camera forever in hand, Grandpa Bill captured years of precious memories of his family.

Bill grew in up in Hicksville, NY and was the son of John and Helen Lent and brother of Elaine Davidson. He had a special relationship with his maternal grandmother, Mary Wilson and his Uncle Arthur Eckert. It was in grade school that he met the love of his life, Audrey Olsen. When Bill felt the call to serve his country, he joined the Marine Corp in 1952, did basic training in Paris Island, South Carolina, and took Audrey as his wife before shipping out to Korea with the First Marines, 7th Division, Abel Company. Tough and determined, Bill always looked out for his fellow marines with disregard for his personal safety. He was awarded the Bronze Star for meritorious service during operations against enemy aggressor forces in Korea. Throughout the years, Bill used the lessons from his military service to shape his life and his career. Once a Marine, always a Marine.

Upon returning from Korea Bill joined Grumman Aerospace where he a enjoyed a 37-year career. Recognized for his skill and dedication and admired by his fellow Grummanites, he became Plane Captain for the very first F-14 fighter jet, “The Tomcat”, from the mock-up stage to the first test flight in 1970. Bill’s idea for a simple yaw string was invaluable to future naval aviators. He was one of the few civilians who had the privilege to fly in the F-14, 1X with Grumman Test Pilot Joe Burke. He traveled with the company on special assignments including England, Canada and Spain. Upon retirement, he “passed the torch” to his son, Tim, who also became an F-14 plane captain for future generations of the Tomcat.

He and Audrey loved to travel, and especially loved cruising where they shared many incredible adventures. They made lasting friends wherever they went and treasured all their new relationships. With a life well lived and surrounded by amazing family and friends, Bill Lent was indeed a lucky man.

Reposing at the O.B. Davis Funeral Homes, 1001 Route 25A, Miller Place, New York. Visitation Sunday, August 4, 2019 from 2-4 and 7-9 pm. Services Monday, August 5, 2019, 10 am Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, Rocky Point. Interment Calverton National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project at https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org