Frederick William Cherota, Sr.

Lt. Col. Frederick W. Cherota, Sr., USAF Retired, 92, passed away September 12, 2009. Frederick was in the U.S. Air Force for 28 years serving as a flight instructor, a pilot, Intelligence Officer and many other assignments including the Berlin Air Lift and the Korean Conflict. He was honored to serve under General Curtis Lemay with the Strategic Air Command, out of Omaha, Nebraska. After his retirement from the Air Force in 1966, Frederick returned to school and received a double Masters in Chemistry and General Science. He retired from the Biloxi Public School System after 15 years. Frederick was preceded in death by his mother, father, sister and brother. Survivors include his wife of 69 years, Elaine Beck Cherota, 8 children; Frederick W. Cherota, Jr. (Charlene), Ocean Springs, MS, Robert C. Cherota (Maria), Ocean Springs, MS, William H. Cherota (Ginny), Lawton, OK, Majorie C. Byrd (Jim Byrd), Pensacola, FL, Nancy C. Sonnier (Mitch Sonnier), Vinton, LA, Betty C. Hyde, Boise, ID, Katharine E. Conn, Saucier, MS and Nicole M. Winans (Jody Winans) Ocean Springs, MS. Frederick is also survived by 24 grandchildren; Lauren, Robin, Roberta, Rachael, Sharon, Elizabeth, Susan, Daniel, Michelle, Dane, Len, Jennifer, Jessica, Heather, Hillary, Noah, Abigail, Amelia, Whitney, Logan, Hannah, Richie, Zackary and Spencer, 50 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren. Our family is most thankful for the prayers of friends and acquaintances and would like to specifically recognize and acknowledge Dad's caregivers; Iris, Patricia, Norlie, Shante, Lawanda, Stella and all the others who have come and supported us with the love and diligence in caring for our loved one and likewise for us. In lieu of flowers the family prefers donations to the Disabled American Veterans. Condolences may be offered at the family home in Biloxi on Sunday, September 13, 2009 and Monday, September 14, 2009 from 2:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. Arrangements by: Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Homes, Howard Ave., Biloxi, MS.