General Samuel Jaskilka USMC

General Samuel Jaskilka passed away January 15, 2012 from pneumonia. He had spent 33 years of retirement in Annapolis, Maryland. Gen. Jaskilka was born and raised in Ansonia, Connecticut. He attended the University of Connecticut, graduating in 1942. At UConn, he met Norma Blick, and they were married from Dec. 1942 until her death in 2000 .

General Jaskilka served for 36 years in the USMC (1942 – 1978), and fought in three wars – World War II, Korean War, and the Vietnam War. He became Assistant Commandant in 1976. He holds the following personal decorations: The Distinguished Service Medal, the Silver Star Medal with one gold star in lieu of a second award, the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V,” the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the National Order of Vietnam, and the Army Distinguished Service Order, 1st Class.

General and Mrs. Jaskilka raised four children, Michael of Eugene, Oregon; Diane of Arlington, Virginia; Anne (deceased 2008); and Mark of Colorado Springs, Colorado. They have 8 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.

General Jaskilka loved his family, his country, and the Marine Corps. Everything he did he did with great passion, whether it was leading troops in combat, clearing land to build his house, or cheering for his favorite teams. His passing leaves a void in all our hearts that cannot be replaced. He will be greatly missed.

Arrangements under the direction of Arlington Funeral Home, Arlington, VA.