Not to PKD, this time, but a real loss nonetheless. All of our lives are diminished when someone so vital leaves us:

Lt. Col. Joseph B. Mahoney Jr. (Retired) entered into eternal life on Monday, May 26, 2008. He was born March 1, 1938, in Springfield, Mass., to the late Joseph B., Sr. and Madeleine Rushford Mahoney. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Marcia Moynahan Mahoney; four children: Peggy Mahoney Santry (husband Steve), J.B. Mahoney III (wife Marie), Patrick Mahoney (wife Kathleen), and Erin Mahoney Berrigan (husband Patrick); and one sister, Mary Lynne Farrell of Monmouth Beach, N.J.

His memory will live on through his 12 grandchildren: Kyle, Scott and Ryan Santry, Eric, Jessica and Ashley Mahoney, Patrick, Faith and Aidan Mahoney, and Madeleine, Claire and Patrick Berrigan.

During his 21-year career as an Air Force command pilot, he flew the C-118 and the C-133 for more than 6,500 hours, including serving in the Vietnam War. For his service to the United States of America, he was awarded the Bronze Star, the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal and the Air Force Commendation Medal.

Private interment services and military honors at Biloxi National Cemetery will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in the name of Lt. Col. Joseph B. Mahoney Jr. (Retired) to the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, Attn: Contributions, One Intrepid Square, West 46th St. &12th Ave., New York, N.Y. 10036 or at www.fallenheroesfund.org. Sign the family Guest Book online at www.ejfieldingfh.com.

— Kenny