Robert F. Deegan

Robert F. "Smokey" Deegan, 95, of Schuylkill Haven, passed away Monday, January 26th, at The Gardens of York Terrace, Pottsville.

Robert was born in Pottsville on December 9, 1930, a son of the late James & Edna (Boger) Deegan.

Married nearly 56 years, Bob was the loving husband of Eva B. (Peterson) Deegan.

He was a 1948 graduate of Pottsville High School.

Bob had an impressive 22 year career with the U.S. Navy. He retired holding the rank of Master Chief, Quartermaster.

Being a signalman and navigator, most of this career was spent at Sea, but did do a stint as Drill Instruction in San Diego, Training Center, Ca. Taught ROTC at the University of Washington as assisting professor. One of his favorite tours of duty, was taking a team of men to Ethiopia, to teach at the Emperor Haile Selassie Naval Academy in Massawa, Eritrea.

After retiring, he taught NJROTC, in high school, first in Kentucky, later Northern California wearing the uniform for an additional 9 years. Started and taught Celestial Navigation classes at College of the Redwoods, Ca. In recent years, gardening was his enjoyment and travelling.

In addition to his wife, Bob is also survived by two grandchildren: Jolene Perry, & Joshua Baker, and four great-grandchildren: Jewel, Owen, Mark, & Sage.

In addition to his parents, Bob is also preceded in death by his children: James Deegan, & Kim Deegan.

A private graveside service will be held at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville.