Members in Memory~
Louis “Lou” Gregor, of Largo passed away peacefully on Monday, June 21, 2021. In 1956 Louis emigrated to the United States with his family and settled in Queens New York. Along with his family he owned and operated Turul Bookbindery in Queens and then Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey until 1985 when he opened Gregor’s Marine in Largo, Florida. Louis served in the Hungarian Army and was no stranger to serving the community, he was a Free Mason and a Shriner, but truly found his calling as a longtime member of Rotary International, having first joined the Jefferson Township Rotary in 1975, serving as President , and Governors Representative. Upon relocating to Florida, Louis’ involvement with Rotary did not stop as he was one of founders of the Indian Rocks Beach Rotary Club. Louis was a loyal parishioner of St. Jerome Church in Largo, a Ham Radio operator and avid bowler for decades prior to focusing on developing his marina business. Always outgoing, charming and funny, if you knew him, you loved him.
Robert “Bob” Dittmar, of Indian Rocks Beach passed away on Dec. 11, 2017. Bob was the Past President of the Rotary Club of Indian Rocks Beach as well as a member of the Indian Rocks Family Sailing Association and Tampa Bay Watch. He had an infectious smile and a welcoming personality. He was an even keeled skipper with a warm heart of true service above self.
Thomas H. Hafner, LTC (Ret) USAF, of Belleair Beach, passed away on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2016. Tom was a Past President of the Rotary Club of Indian Rocks Beach and a PSFRD Fire Commmissioner. He was very involved in disaster preparedness and training. Tom had a unique sense of humor, positive attitude and willingness to help others.
Richard A. Lee of Indian Rocks Beach passed away on Tuesday, Sept. 16, 2009. He was a friend of several Rotary members prior to joining the Club. Originally from Britain he was a naturalized citizen who enjoyed living in Indian Rocks Beach. Richard was an outgoing and cheerful man.
Fred Peck was a Rotarian for over 40 years. He was a frequent “Snow Bird” visitor to our club for many years. Upon his retirement from a lifelong career as an educator and school principal in Massachusetts he joined the Rotary Club of Indian Rocks Beach. He was particularly interested in Rotary’s youth programs. Fred was also a devoted sports writer and fan.
John J. Todia III – The fabric of the entire Indian Rocks Beach community was forever altered with the passing John J. Todia III, who left us after a short and unexpected illness. The Rotary Club of Indian Rocks Beach established the John J. Todia III Scholarship in his memory to promote the study of Art and Music. Donate to the John J. Todia Scholarship Fund.