Willis Funeral Home | Dalton, GA

Obituary For Mack Charles Gaston

REAR ADMIRAL (RET.) MACK CHARLES GASTON – Age 78, of Chicago Illinois peacefully passed away Sunday, December 2, 2018 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born July 17, 1940 to John Gaston and Felicia Gilliard Gaston and was preceded in death by his brother, Frederick Gaston.

He was a graduate of Tuskegee University, received an MBA from Marymount University and received a commission as an Ensign in the U.S Navy in December 1965. Admiral Gaston had an impressive naval career spanning 31 years, including command of two destroyers and cruiser USS Josephus Daniels, and ashore as Commander Field Command, Defense Nuclear Agency and the first black Commander of Naval Training Center Great Lakes. He retired in 1995. Following retirement from the U.S. Navy, Mack pursued a successful corporate career at Waste Management, Inc. and Electronic Data Systems in senior executive positions.

His infectious smile, unbridled enthusiasm, boundless energy and firm, some would say “bone crushing” handshake were hallmarks of a man who throughout his life was focused on people, human rights, personal dignity, increased opportunity for all including women serving their country with honor. He served as a mentor, role model and positively influenced the lives and careers of countless individuals.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy (Lindblad) Gaston, his daughter, Sonja (Larry) Henderson, his brother, Henry (Connie) Gaston, step-son, Jeff (Karen) Williamson, step-son, Craig (Tara) Williamson, and nine grandchildren, Lawrence, Nicole, Jon, Shane, Aidan, Nate, Luke, Emma and Tyler, and one great-grandchild, Lily.

Funeral Service will be held Wednesday, December 12, 2018 at 2:00 P.M. / CT. at the Village Church of Gurnee, 1319 N. Hunt Club Rd., Gurnee, Illinois 60031. The family will receive friends Friday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 P.M. at Willis Funeral Home, 2011 Martin L. King, Jr. Blvd., Dalton. Private Interment. Arrangements are by Willis Funeral Home, Inc., Dalton, Georgia 30721 Tel: (706) 278-3808.

Guest Book

Deepest sympathy from our entire family. Mack was a man of great strength, love and intelligence. He now joins Mrs Felicia, mr Johnny, Frederick, Inez, Lillian and the host of his eternal cheer leaders. May he now Rest In Peace. His commission here on earth is over. Nancy Bishop and Johnson family

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To the family, I am so sorry for your loss. During this sad time, please know that our Heavenly Father assures us of his loving support in times of grief, and he promises to end the pain of death by means of his kingdom (Psalm 34:18, Daniel 2:44, and Revelation 21:3,4). In the days to come, may these verses provide comfort and encouragement for your family. For more comforting thoughts, please visit jw.org. Take care. ~ Melva

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Dear Henry, It would be neglectful of me if i didn't express sympathy at this time for the loss of your brother Mack Charles. I also send my condolences to his wife and daughter. I was surprised to hear of his passing. I remember Mac mostly from our days at Emery Street School. I always remember Mack as being a serious student. Mack was in a class ahead of me and you were in my class and somehow we thought you were a smarter student. I realized later that both of you excelled in the military, with Mac becoming an Admiral. Who would have thought? Over the years we lost touch, but the memories I have from Emery Street School still linger. My family shares with you the grief and sorrow you must feel at this time. If we can be of any help to you or your family please let me know. Jimmie and Deanna Baker.

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Our heart goes out to the family at this sad time. Hold on to the memories. William and Patsy Mcdade

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Praying for the family at this sad and difficult time. Pastor Charles Catchings & Liberty Baptist Church Family

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Our hearts goes out to you and your family at this difficult time. New Hope Baptist Church Usher Board( Velina Weaver}

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