Dick Ames is in the center with Tony Hess (l) and Rick Shields (r)
The Review is sad to report that former City Councilor Dick Ames passed away on March 12 after a two year battle with cancer. Following his career as a Naval Fleet Captain, Dick and his wife retired to Jacksonville in the early 1990’s.
Dick was one of the most dedicated civic volunteers and led the charge to transform Jacksonville’s volunteer fire department to a full-time, professional department. Dick’s leadership was also instrumental in forming the Jacksonville Forest Park and the Park Ranger program. When available, the Review will publish a full-length obituary and a funeral service announcement.
Alan Horobin, Ed Rova, Tony Hess with Dick Ames (l to r) at the Beekman Arboretum weekly clean-up
I am saddened to hear of CAPT Ames passing. I truly enjoyed working for him.
He was a true gentleman and a great naval officer. We will miss him.
R. David Deese
Captain Dick Ames, what an honor to have known you. Serving our country so proudly, we are indebted. Serving his community as a Citizen, as City Councilor, and as a Ranger we are proud and humble. Dick was instrumental in pursuing a vision and implementing it, to bring a professional paid fire department to Jacksonville. He pursued a vision with many talented folks to expand the Forest Park, and the availability of that park for all ages. Dick has left behind a Legacy to be proud. Thank you Dick, we of Jacksonville salute you.
I first met Dick as Ensign Dick Ames in Sasebo Japan in 1961 – a brand Navy Officer, just like me. We both served aboard the USS Cormorant MSC 122 and spent 2 enjoyable years in Japan. In 1964 I married Ann and Dick was part of our wedding ceremony in Watervliet NY.
Last year we reconnected again after many years and it was wonderful to see him again.
He will be missed.
Bill Megan – San Rafael, Ca.
I was deeply saddened hearing of the passing of my friend Dick. I met Dick in Taiwan, we were both X pats. living, working and enjoying life in Taipei. I was with him the night he met his wife, Jessie. I have many fond memories of Dick as we took several vacations together in Asia. We both belonged to the American Club in Asia where we had a great time with other x pats. Some of my fondest memories is when we used to have our Mexican night in Taipei, typically we bought most of the Tequila and Cilantro in town for our dinner, good times and great memories. Dick was a great guy and will be missed.