Clifford Leo Gamble

Clifford Leo Gamble, 92, of Fort Wayne, died on Nov. 25, 2011 at his home. He was born to Guy and Mary (Joly) Gamble on May 28, 1919. He attended the Cathedral Catholic Elementary School. As a young boy of 15, he received the Eagle Scout Award. He graduated with honors in 1937 from Central Catholic High School. He enlisted in the United States Army Air Corp in 1942. He entered as an aviation cadet in pilot training and became a Captain and pilot of a single engine P 47 in the European Theatre of Operations for 3 years where he carried out 85 combat missions. As a member of the 368th Fighter Group of the 395th Fighter Squadron he received many authorized decorations including a Silver Star for gallantry in action, a Distinguished Flying Air Medal, 12 Oak Leaf Clusters, an American Theatre Ribbon, a European Theatre of Operations Ribbon, 4 Battle Stars and a Unit Citation. He completed his tour of duty in June 1945. On returning from service in the Air Corp, he rejoined the Lincoln National Life Insurance Company where he remained for 44 years before retiring in 1984. He started as a mail clerk and ended his career as a Senior Vice-President. After retiring from Lincoln Life, he formed a company called Productivity Dynamics, where he provided consulting services to various businesses in the area. He was preceded in death by his bride of 63 years, Eloise (Crosby) Gamble, his sister, Evelyn Schafer and his brother, Dallas Gamble. He was the proud father of seven children, Susan Platter, of Bloomington, IN; Jean Gamble, of Chicago, IL; Laura (Bob) McCulloch, of Fort Wayne; Jill (Kevin) Beach, of Upper Long Lake; Ellen (Fred) Becerra, of Fort Wayne; John Gamble, of Waunakee, WI and James (Nancy) Gamble, of Fort Wayne. He spent his last years enjoying lunches and discussions with his closest friends, continuing to love and support his children and spending as much time as he could with his 18 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren. Extend a special thank you to his caregivers, Virginia, Katie, Ann and Denise and Hospice. Mass of Christian Resurrection is 10:30 am Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2011 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 4500 Fairfield Ave. with calling one hour prior. Fr. Cyril Fernandes officiating. Visitation is 4-8 pm Tuesday at Klaehn, Fahl and Melton, Winchester Rd Chapel, 6424 Winchester Rd. In lieu of flowers, preferred memorials to Catholic Charities or St. Mary's Soup Kitchen. www.klaehnfahlmeltonfunerals.com