Michael Francis Pompa

Another member of “The Greatest Generation” failed to “answer the muster roll” when Michael F. Pompa of Upland quietly passed and went on to join his beloved wife Margaret T. (Peggy) Pompa and the other comrades who represented the greatest and by far the best generation of America. Born on December 9, 1919, Michael was the son of Italian immigrants Rocco and Rosemarie Pompa. He was raised in a tight knit Roman Catholic family where emphasis was education, hard work and self discipline. These principles served him well and Michael went on to many personal and professional accomplishments. Educated in Philadelphia public schools, he graduated from Central High School in 1936. Upon graduation, he started a long pursuit of higher education and enrolled in a two year technical training course sponsored by The Philadelphia Electrical Company through Drexel Institute to learn power plant engineering and maintenance. His education was interrupted by World War II and his enlistment into the US Army. Michael was eventually commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the Army Air Corp and served as an armament officer. During this time, he took the opportunity to marry the love of his life, Margaret T. Ruane. Shortly after marrying, Michael departed for a 27 month overseas tour serving in the South Pacific where he rose to the rank of captain. After the surrender of Japan, Michael separated from the military and returned stateside to begin his life with Peggy. He immediately enrolled in college to resume his studies while simultaneously starting a family. Michael enrolled at UCLA and graduated in June 1949 with a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering. and would eventually earn a Master of Science Degree in Engineering from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona in 1975. Michael and Peggy raised 5 children, Michael F. Jr., Kenneth W., Laurent P. Yvonne R. (Bonnie) deceased; and Steve P. R. Pompa. In addition Michael and Margaret had 15 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren. Michael spent a 40 year career in the Aerospace industry. He was involved with many aerospace projects over his career, most notable, being part of the effort to place a man on the moon. His employment in the aerospace industry included various engineering and management positions with Aero Jet General Corp, Johns Hopkins, Applied Physics Lab and CalTech, Jet Propulsion Lab. He retired in December of 1989. Even in retirement Michael was an active member of his community. He was an active Roman Catholic who helped form and build three catholic parishes, St. Catharine's of Silver Spring Maryland, St. Joseph’s and St. Anthony’s Catholic Church both of Upland. He was a founding member of the San Antonio Heights Citizen’s Patrol, as well as serving on the San Antonio Water Board and the San Bernardino County Grand Jury.