The PGR has been invited by the family of John Joseph "JJ" LaMaitre, 71, to attend the Military Honors for their loved one. It is our privilege to fulfill their request.
Born on July 2, 1954, in Buffalo, New York, John was the son of the late John Elmer LaMaitre and Myra Elizabeth Zimmer Rippey.
Known to family and friends as "JJ," John lived a life defined by service, dedication, laughter, and an unwavering love for those around him. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy for 26 years as an Aviation Ordnanceman, retiring with the rank of Master Chief. He served as the CMC of the Air Wing on the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72). JJ also served on the Constellation, Ranger, Coral Sea, Carl Vinson, and Ronald Reagan.
His 26-year military career was a source of immense pride, and he cherished the lifelong friendships and camaraderie forged during his years of service. As a devoted member and leader within the Association of Aviation Ordnancemen, JJ dedicated countless hours to mentoring younger sailors, supporting fellow veterans and strengthening the organization he loved. His contributions at both the local and national levels left a lasting impact on the aviation ordnance community.
From his fellow Ordies: JJ was a phenomenal Ordie and a deeply devoted, influential pillar of the Association of Aviation Ordnance. His legacy is defined by his unwavering commitment to AAO Chapter 8 and his years of selfless service at the National level as our National Secretary.
While his military accomplishments were many, John's greatest pride was his family. This October, he and his beloved wife, Theresa "Tess" LaMaitre, would have celebrated 49 years of marriage. Together, they built a life filled with love, resilience, adventure, and countless cherished memories. Their marriage stood as a beautiful example of friendship, respect, and unconditional love.
John also found happiness in his workshop, where he enjoyed hours working on projects and tinkering with anything that sparked his interest. He had a gift for storytelling, a quick wit, and a warm personality that drew people to him. His presence, laughter, and ability to make others feel welcome and loved will be deeply missed.
He is survived by his loving wife, Theresa "Tess" LaMaitre; daughters and sons-in-law, Patricia and Alex Carey, and Dawn and Bart Gillard; grandchildren, Savannah Gillard and Jonathan Preiss; sisters, Patricia Scholz, Sue Lauck, and Kim DePasquale; brothers, Jim Rippey, Cliff Rippey, and Tom Rippey; along with many extended family members, friends, fellow veterans, and members of the Association of Aviation Ordnancemen.
NOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this Military Veteran. For those interested, all PGR members are welcome. This Mission is a Flag Line of Honor at Miramar National Cemetery. Please see the timetable if you would like to participate.
The weather is predicted to be hot, please stay hydrated and don't forget to eat, it can make a difference with your ability to withstand the heat.Timetable for Friday 28 August 20261300 – Stage Miramar National Cemetery, 5795 Nobel Dr, San Diego, CA 92122
https://maps.app.goo.gl/WjECEHfK3jc6NqxVA 1315 – Mission briefing
1330 – Flag Line of Honor for arrival of our hero and family
1400 – Flag Line of Honor for dignified transfer of hero at the committal shelter, followed by Service with Military Honors
R/C Ted Tomaszewicz “Mr. T.”
SoCal Patriot Guard Ride CaptainTedNavyPGR@gmail.com
(201) 970-5546
You do not have to be a Veteran or a motorcycle rider to attend this mission. All PGR members are welcome. We encourage those who do not ride to attend in your car. If this is your first mission, go to the initial staging area, and you will be briefed by the R/C (Ride Captain). Dress for motorcycle riding or wear casual attire while driving a cage (car). Please feel free to attend any portion of this mission you can. Please ride/drive safely.
Remember that our mission is to stand tall and silent with honor and respect for our Heroes—no talking, smoking, or cell phone use during the flag line or service. Please keep radios off and engine noise to a minimum. Show respect to all who are there, not just the ones we honor.
