Otis Evan Millenbine Lt. Col. USMC Retired Otis Evan Millenbine, Lt. Col. USMC Retired, passed away Tuesday, April 23, 2013 at the VA Medical Center in Gainesville after a short illness, with his family at his side. Otis was born in Dahlgren, Illinois on August 13, 1921. He was the son of the late George and Eva Millenbine. After high school, Otis worked for the Caterpillar Company. In 1942 he joined the Marine Corps to defend the country. He also met and married the love of his life, Mary Margaret Baumann (Marge). They were married for 65 years. He served in the Phillipines during WWII, as well as the Korean and Vietnam conflicts. He was awarded numerous medals including 3 Distinguished Flying Crosses and 11 Air Medals. He retired from the United States Marine Corps as a pilot following 27 years of honorable service in 1969. Upon retirement, He and Marge opened a small business in Orlando, Florida, The Ball O Yarn which was a successful enterprise for 22 years. In 1991, they moved to Melrose, spent time playing Bridge at the Palatka Bridge Club and enjoying their grandchildren. He was a member of St. Williams Catholic Church.Otis was preceded in death by his loving wife Mary Margaret and his close friend and wing-man from WWII Burton Henry of Marine Fighter Squadron VMF-218. He is survived by his sister Georgia Karcher of Illinois, His daughter Barbara Jane Bawek (John) of Starke Florida. His son Robert A. Millenbine (Lynne) of Charleston SC, Three grandchildren: Brenda B. Thornton (Donald) of Starke, Paul A. Bawek (Dottie) of Tallahassee, and Stephanie M. van der Horst (Erik) of Charleston SC. His greatest joy was having 9 great grandchildren: Nathan, Jessica, Nicholas, Morgan, Tori, Brian, Natalie, Christopher and Jack. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Palatka Bridge Club or St Williams Catholic Church.A memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, April 27, 2013 at 5:00 p.m. in the St. William Catholic Church in Keystone Heights. A Graveside service will be held Monday, April 29, 2013 at 11:30 a.m. at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell with Full Military Honors. Arrangements are under the care of JONES-GALLAGHER FUNERAL HOME, 340 E. WALKER DR. KEYSTONE HEIGHTS, FL 32656. 352-473-3176.www.jonesgallagherfh.com hide