Carl Merritt Collier

Carl was born in Tulare, California on September 21, 1944 to Carl and June Collier. He attended Palo Verde Elementary and Middle School and graduated with the Class of 1962 from Tulare Union High School. Shortly after graduation, Carl entered the United States Navy and served from 1963 to 1989 attaining the rank of CWO4, retiring after 27 years of service to his country. He served on the USS Ticonderoga, USS Constellation and the USS Ranger. Carl served in San Diego at Miramar with the VF1 & VF2 Fighter Squadrons, the P3’s at Moffett Field and served two tours of duty in Vietnam. He also spent time in Japan and Hawaii. Carl married Stella Spano in 1972 in San Jose, California and they have celebrated 42 years of marriage. Carl’s hobby was woodworking, making children’s toys and picture frames. He also enjoyed making wind chimes out of spent shell casings. Carl enjoyed camping and fishing and was very active in the Association of Aviation Ordinance; he was a lifetime member of Tulare Amvets, Post 56 and VFW and was a member of the American Legion.

Carl was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Arnold.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife, Stella of Tipton, CA; five children, Tyrell Collier of Vancouver, WA, Barbara Collier-DeGennaro of Lacey, WA, Kenneth McGuire of Tipton, CA, Vincent McGuire of Tennessee and Teri Pelton of Austin, TX; two sisters, Susie Hambleton of Salem, OR and Carol Diaz of Three Rivers, CA; twelve grandchildren and three great granddaughters.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2014 at 11 am at the Methodist Church, 290 E. Cooper in Tipton, CA.

Donations may be made in Carl’s name to Wounded Warrior Project, AAO Association Scholarship Fund or donor’s favorite charity.

Tributes and condolences may be made at www.millerchapel.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Miller Memorial Chapel, 1120 W. Goshen Ave, Visalia, CA 93291 (559) 732-8371.