Arthur Berl Converse

Arthur B. Converse, age 81, passed peacefully at his home in West Melbourne, FL on December 13, 2024 embraced by his family after a valiant fight with cancer. He was born on February 8, 1943 in Flint, Michigan to loving parents, John Jay Converse, Jr. and Eulavee Converse nee Livingston. Art was raised with his three siblings in Mount Morris, Michigan where he graduated from high school in 1961.

Art joined the United States Air Force in October 1961; while at his first duty station in England, he met the love of his life. Art and Pat were married in 1965; together they spent the next 22 years traveling the world and raising a family while Art proudly served his county. During his 26 years in the Air Force, he spent 11 of them overseas in England, France, Vietnam, Korea, and Turkey. Master Sergeant Arthur B. Converse retired before retiring from Patrick AFB, FL in October 1987. Art earned numerous commendations for his bravery and leadership to include four Air Force Commendation Medals, Air Force Achievement Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, seven Air Force Good Conduct Medal’s, and several campaign and service ribbons.

Following his distinguished military service, Art went on to obtain his Bachelor’s Degree and became an Environmental, Health and Safety Engineer at Harris/Intersil. In 2001, he retired again, so he could spend more time on the golf course and with his family. Art also loved to travel! Many cruises were taken, and the ones with his family were always his favorite. Cross county road trips were made, and always included throwing the golf clubs in as routes were planned based on golf courses nearby. In fact, when purchasing new vehicles, the Corvette excluded, whether the golf clubs fit in the back was top priority. Golfing vacations often included visits with extended family and lifelong friends. During their travels, many memories were also created at National Monuments, Air Force Museums and car museums; of course, the National Corvette Museum was a necessary stop each time they passed nearby. Though he loved golf, travel and his Corvette, family always came first and with unconditional love. Art’s favorite role was as Papa, and he treasured time with his 3 grandchildren, 2 bonus grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, and several bonus great-grandchildren.

Art will be lovingly remembered by his beloved wife of 59 years, Pat; daughter Michelle Litteral (George) and son Darrin Converse (Taryn). Treasured Papa to Daniel Kemp (Casey), Aaron Converse, Saryn Converse, and his great-grandchildren Dakota and Charlotte, bonus grandchildren Russ and Danielle, and several bonus great-grandchildren. He will be remembered fondly by numerous nieces, nephews, and his close circle of friends. Art’s legacy of service, love and dedication will forever be cherished by his family and friends.

He has reunited with his parents John Jay and Eulavee Converse, siblings John Jay Converse III, Earl Leroy Converse, Esther Elaine Winterlee, and many others who held a special place in his heart.

Visitation will be held on December 30, at 10:00 am at Fountainhead Memorial Funeral Home (7359 Babcock St SE, Palm Bay, FL) with his Celebration of Life at 10:30 am and reception to follow. A Committal at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery (5525 US Highway 1. Mims, FL) will take place at 2:00 pm, and the family welcomes those who wish to attend. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made, in Art’s name, to the Disabled American Veterans to support fellow veterans.