Obituary of Richard Harold Calise

Richard “Dick” Harold Calise passed away on June 3, 2016 in Jacksonville, FL. He was born on November 5, 1949 in Altoona, PA, to the late Eva Hidler and Christopher Calise. Richard graduated from Altoona High School in 1967. He volunteered to serve his country in the U.S. Army when he was 17. He retired as a CW02 UH1 Pilot. He served with the Vietnam Campaign from May 1968 through June 1969 with the 7th - 8th Field Artillery. During his military career Richard served his country in many capacities within the Signal Corp, Transportation Corp, Infantry, Armored Divisions and as a member of the nation’s rapid deployment force and 1st Light Infantry Division (7th Infantry Division Light). His career took him to 9 different states (multiple times) and 5 different countries. Throughout his career he always put his family first, taking them on adventures with memories that will last forever. Richard received numerous Unit Merit Awards and Citations including: Meritorious Service Medals, Army Commendation Medals, and Army Achievement Medals. Upon retirement, Richard enjoyed making and designing custom wood furniture for his immediate family and wooden toys for needy children with the Jacksonville Woodworkers. He also volunteered with the Safe Animal Shelter as dogs were such a huge part of his life. He loved our canine family. Additionally, he loved helping others in need even as his own health was failing. His greatest joy came from his daughter, being a Papa to his three grandchildren, and being with the love of his life every day. Richard leaves to cherish his memory, a loving wife of 46 years, Charlene Calise; daughter, Katie Calise Wheeler; grandchildren, Luke, Calise and Dawson Wheeler; son-in-law, Todd Wheeler; brothers, Christopher, Robert and Daniel Calise; sisters, Betty Soulsby, Scherry Barra, Nancy Graham and Leona Calise; and many nieces, nephews, and friends. He will miss them all as they miss him. The family wishes to thank Mayo Clinic and Community Hospice for the exceptional care given to Richard.