News
[August 27, 2024] Sad News: Passing of Charles A. Gibb {AFSA-IRS Founding Father}
Charles A Gibb (December 11, 1935 - May 9, 2024) Yesterday, May 9, our wonderful dad, Charlie Gibb, donned his boots, grabbed his saddle, and rode off to greener pastures. A man defined by his character, not just his career, he will forever be knows as an amazing dad, a fabulous husband, awesome Pop Pop, and a wonderful human being. If you were lucky enough to be his friend, family, associate, neighbor, co-worker, or classmate, you know exactly what we mean. His love of the west, riding horses, and exploring the wide open prairies was just a small glimpse into Charlie. His life was full of adventures, exploration, and fun. As a child, he rolled his own cigarettes at 6, climbed water towers as a teen, and we have heard stories of jumping on train cars near the Army War College. He spent a few years stationed at Johnston Island with the Air Force during the Korean War. During that time he made many friends in Hawaii, was the member of an investment group (they didn't get rich), explored the islands, and guarded an atomic bomb on the base. He was a "badass" federal agent going on raids, chasing mob bosses, and locking up white collar criminals. He even did the occasional secret service detail for Presidents and testified in Congress several times. He loved planning parties - the food, decorations, playlists, and theme. He made dandelion wine (made Amy and Diane pick the flowers in the field across from the court house in Fairfax, VA), liked to pick apples and peaches, and loved to cook. He could fix just about anything that broke, complained about taxes, and loved to do yard work (shirtless so he could get a tan). He was meticulous at keeping records (we found records on just about everything in his life divided into hundreds of manila folders), a championship level yard sale shopper, and an expert marksman. He loved dancing, driving, and traveling. He loved planning vacations, riding roller coasters, and music. He recited "The Raven" to put his kids to sleep (seriously), loved to read, and was an amazing writer and editor. He insisted very vacation trip allow for "serendipity" - meaning he kept a certain amount unplanned so there would be time for last minute sidetracks. He was a dedicated worker and taught us the value of a strong work ethic - but he never missed a concert, soccer game, football game, or anything else important to his kids. He was the guy who would always buy lemonade from the kids on the corner, volunteer for community events, and run organizations. He was a founding member of AFSA-IRS and was made a life member. He taught firearms self defense classes for women, was an awesome doodler, and spent many years floating the Boiling Springs Christmas tree on the lake. He loved a good martini (straight up with a twist), midnight snacks, ice cream sandwiches, and he was always game for a cheeseburger. He taught his grandkids to play checkers and chess, ride bikes, and loved to hide Easter eggs. He was famous for his red pen, he was a competitive pistol shooter, and loved poetry. He enjoyed western movies, crooners, country music, and an icy cold Coors Light. He left behind 100s of pens and pencils, a huge assortment of staplers, and an incredibly large collection of really cool vintage cowboy cap guns. He loved to play catch, throw the football, and go fishing. He dressed up for Halloween and loved talking to the kids who came around for Trick or Treat (he counted every one so he'd be sure he knew how much to buy for next year). He loved Christmas. He loved crab feasts. He loved beach boardwalks (but not the sand). He loved amusement parks. He loved life. He loved cowboys. He loved the Lazy L&B Ranch in Dubois, WY. He loved his friends. He loved his family. We loved him (and still do). He asked us to keep his secret chili recipe a secret. He left detailed (enumerated) instructions about what he wanted. A document titled Charles A. Gibb Instruction for Events Following My Death lists six items. He wanted to be cremated, he didn't want a funeral, and he wanted a huge "celebration of life" which he said was not allowed to be held at a funeral home. He provided us with an Obituary to be read at the event, a list of songs he wants played, the poems he wants read, and a request that the food include chili or cowboy stew - and coffee, of course. Once we have a date for the big party, we'll make sure it gets posted on social media. He wants us to make sure the invitation goes out to relatives, friends, associates, classmates, and others. He even asked for us to advertise in the local papers. Happy Trails to you, Dad.
[November 25, 2023] Convention 2024
Louisville, Kentucky More information coming!!!!
[October 19, 2023] Sad News: Passing of Larry Halper
Larry Charles Halper our beloved husband, father, and “Boppa” sadly passed away peacefully at home at the age of 74. Larry was born on October 19, 1949, in Chicago, Illinois. He loved his Chicago Cubs and turned his family into Cubs fans for life! He moved to Holiday Utah with his family at the age of 13, that is where he met his wife Care, the girl next door. They were married for 52 years. Larry had two amazing sons, Justin (Kelly) and Jared (Ashley) and seven beautiful grandchildren. Larry graduated from the University of Utah in 1972 with a bachelor’s degree in marketing. In 1977 Larry landed his dream job as a Special Agent with the US Treasury Department where he served for 29+ years. Larry loved his job and couldn’t wait to get up every morning to go to work. He was an exceptional Agent and received many awards. The best years of his career were spent as a member of the CID Task Force in Las Vegas, Nevada. After retiring he became a successful Private Investigator. In 2012 Larry and Care moved back to Utah to retire with family and most importantly their grandchildren. “Boppa” will be dearly missed.
[August 7, 2023] Summer 2023 Newsletter Article is uploaded to our website….Thank you, Ross
[June 23, 2023] Sad News: Passing of John Burns
UPCOMING SERVICE
John Burns Obituary
Burns, John Louis On June 8, 2023, John Burns, our loving husband, father, brother, uncle and friend passed away at the age of 63. John was born August 15, 1959 in Springfield, OH, the son of William and Pauline Burns. He graduated from Catholic Central High School and received a scholarship to play baseball from Marietta College where he also received his accounting degree. After graduation, John moved to Denver and met the love of his life. John married his "lovely wife" Beth in 1989 and a few years later they had their loving son, Nathan. John is survived by his wife Beth, son Nathan (Hattie Sue, fiancée) and new grandson coming in November; sister Patty (Dominic) and brother Bill; numerous nieces, nephews, in-laws and loving friends. Preceding John's death were his father William and mother Pauline (Rocco). He spent 30+ years working in different capacities, but his most loved position was being a Special Agent with the Treasury Department. He loved his job and loved all the people and organizations that he worked with. He also had an amazing opportunity to work in London as a Deputy Attaché at the US Embassy. He retired from the Treasury Department in 2010 but pursued various contract positions with DEA, Homeland Security and SBA. Throughout John's career, he was recognized for his exemplary work. John was well respected by other local, state and federal law enforcement agencies. Nathan and Beth were John's primary focus for his entire life. If there was a decision to be made, he always had them first and foremost in making that decision. The best days of his life were fishing with Nathan on the "stretch" in Grand Lake or golfing at the "Stead" with him. He loved his nieces and nephews on both sides of the family, and they loved him too. They will always remember his parting comment of "Stay Awesome". John's passions were fly fishing, golfing with his buddies, hiking a mountain with Beth and spending time with family and friends. His friends were more like family thus came the term Framily. Anyone who met him always felt like they just met a friend for life and they did. He will be missed greatly and left an everlasting impact on so many people. He is an incredible example of what it is to be a man and father. We can all rest assured that he is looking down on us and having a cold one with Mamma. A Memorial Service will be held July 1, 2023, 11:30 at St. Josephs Catholic Church in Springfield with Father John McQuarry officiating. A Celebration of Life will follow at the Eagles Club at 1:00. A Colorado Celebration of Life service will be held August 5 at Mount Vernon Canyon Club in Golden from 1-4. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Catholic Central Foundation in Springfield, OH for student scholarships in John's name OR donations can be sent to Beth to be used for a park bench in Rocky Mountain National Park.
[February 26, 2023] CONVENION 2023
CONVENION 2023 The 2023, "AFSA-IRS National Convention" is currently in the planning stages, however, we are close to finalizing at a St. Augustine Beach ocean front hotel in early October join us for tours in the nation’s oldest city. More information will be posted on the website and in subsequent newsletters.
[January 25, 2023] Sad News: Passing of Walter Murrell
WALTER MURRELL OBITUARY
Walter Lewis Murrell, 87, died peacefully in his home on December 4, 2022. Walter was born in to the late Sara Margaret and Ezra Dewey Murrell. Walter retired from the IRS in 1993 as a Special Agent after more than 30 years of service. He was preceded in death by his siblings Donald Hayes, Robert Thompson and Ezra Dewey, Patricia Louise, and Hubert Nukes. He is survived by his sister, Shirley Ann, his children, Louis (Terri) and Kathryn, and his grandson, Noah, and his wife of 60 years, Helen. Donations in Walter's memory may be made to the Cleveland Memorial Society.
[August 11, 2022] Congratulations AFSA-IRS 2022 Scholarship Recipients
2022 Recipients James F. Howe Sr. and Frank Fotinatos Scholarship Erick HARRIS Erick T. Harris is a senior Accounting student at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (NC A&T). While attending NC A&T, Erick has been consistently named to the Chancellor's and Dean's list, as well as, inducted into multiple academic honor societies. Erick effectively balances his focus on scholastic achievement with his involvement in extracurricular and community service activities. He was recently initiated as a member into Kappa Alpha Psi, Fraternity Inc. Erick has completed internships with multiple organizations in the Finance and Accounting fields, most recently serving as a Finance Intern with W.W. Grainger, Inc. Erick is sincerely honored to be selected as a recipient of the prestigious James F. Howe, Sr. Memorial Scholarship. Nikolas BARNETT My name is Nikolas Barnett. I am a rising sophomore at the University of South Carolina, where I am majoring in International Business and Accounting with a minor in French. I completed my freshman year with a 3.9 GPA. I participate in several extracurricular activities including: the University of South Carolina’s marching band, French Club, Carolina Sales Institute and Phi Mu Alpha. I served on the leadership team for the high school band day for the University of South Carolina’s Band. I have volunteered for campus clean ups and the Carolina food pantry. In college, I plan to study abroad, hopefully in France. I like to travel and I enjoy the French language. In May 2022, I studied abroad in Austria and the Czech Republic as part of a Maymester Global Studies Classroom. After graduating college, I plan to apply the knowledge I obtain from studying international business, accounting, and the French language as well as my interest in government and international affairs to pursue a career as a foreign service officer/agent. I am extremely honored to have been selected as a recipient of the James F. Howe, Sr. & Frank Fotinatos Scholarship. Morgan MONTEMORRA Morgan Robert Montemorra is a 2022 Mount Saint Joseph High School graduate in Baltimore, Maryland. He will be attending Loyola University in Baltimore this fall, where he will be studying Forensics. Morgan maintained a GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale in high school. He also was a member of the Leadership Club, served as an “Ambassador” for his school, and was an active participant in numerous other clubs. He captained his Rugby team during his Junior Year and “lettered” in both Football and Rugby. Morgan lives outside Annapolis, Maryland, and is the son of two former Special Agents. His mother, Kathryn Montemorra, retired from the IRS-CI as an ASAC in the Washington, DC, field office. In contrast, his father retired from the FBI and served in multiple positions. Morgan believes his desire to study Forensics comes from watching his parents and their chosen occupations and hopes to follow in their footsteps one day. Morgan is an avid surfer and spends as much time as possible in the water. When he is not surfing, he is playing with his Bernese Mountain Dog Lucy or playing his guitar. 2022 Recipients AFSA-IRS Memorial Scholarship Mallory MCGUIRE Mallory McGuire is a senior at Drake University and is pursuing a B.S. in Psychology, with minors in Neuroscience and Vocal Music Performance. During the 2021-2022 school year, Mallory earned a place on the Dean's List for both semesters and achieved a 3.66 cumulative GPA. She also presented her research at the Drake University Conference on Undergraduate Research in the Sciences (DUCURS) this spring semester, for the Stereotyping and Objectification Research (SOAR) Lab. This summer, Mallory traveled to Italy to perform in the International Lyric Academy's rendition of Die Zauberflotëas the Second Lady. In the fall, Mallory will continue her roles as President for Psi Chi, a professional psychology fraternity, and Wellness Specialist for Alpha Delta Pi, a social sorority. She also plans to apply to graduate schools across the United States, so she can pursue a PhD in Clinical Psychology. Mallory is extremely thankful to AFSA-IRS for this scholarship to help her pursue her future endeavors. Katherine WISSEL Katherine Wissel is a sophomore at Missouri State University. She is majoring in Global Studies, with minors in Spanish and Latin American Studies. Katherine is active in MSU's Student Government Association as the Director of Academic Affairs, and she enjoys applying what she is learning to her life and the world around her. She is also excited to join the Leadership Team for her college ministry this year. She is grateful to be a recipient of the AFSA-IRS Memorial Scholarship and for her family who has supported and loved her through it all. Katherine dreams of attending law school and practicing immigration law in the future. Miles NANTZE Miles Nantze is the son of member Nathan Nantze and his wife Mauree Nantze. Miles graduated from Shiloh Christian School in the Spring of 2022. Miles was a 3 year member of the Varsity Baseball team and Marching Band. Miles will be attending the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville and will be majoring in mechanical engineering. He also is a student intern for a transportation and logistics company located in Northwest Arkansas. Tia RICCHIO Hi, I'm Tia Ricchio and I attend UW-Madison as a Finance, Investment, & Banking major. I am going into my third year at Madison and I am loving it! I got to experience a somewhat “normal” sophomore year, and I could not be happier with my studies and the opportunities open to me this year. I spent both of my sophomore semesters in the UW Treble choir! I was able to sing with other amazing young adult women, expanding my musical repertoire and exploring different types of cultures that created the music we got to sing. My studies at the Wisconsin Business School have become extremely intense but in the best way. I’m learning more than I ever have and I’m so excited to continue gaining skills to prepare me for the business world. I’m so grateful for the opportunities that the AFSA scholarship committee has provided for me to learn and grow in my college experience. Looking forward, I plan to start interviewing for internships and start accumulating skills to help me stand out in these interviews. I’m also very excited to live in my first apartment and be officially moved out! I’m excited to live with my roommates who are some of my favorite people and start cooking for myself. My grandmas have already started compiling recipes for me to take with me! Overall, I’m excited to keep growing as a person and learning who I am away from my loving family who has spent 20 years preparing me to be on my own. Again, I am very honored that you have considered me for this important scholarship. Thank you! Karsyn WALKER Hi, my name is Karsyn Walker. I graduated with honors from McKinney High School Class of 2022. This fall, I will be attending Oklahoma State University. I will be majoring in Nutritional Sciences with a concentration in Allied Health. My dream is to pursue becoming a Physician’s Assistant in Dermatology. I want my future practice to focus primarily on young people with various skin ailments. I hope to give back the joy and confidence that our young people need after suffering from common adolescent skin conditions. By doing so, I will continue to follow the same significant goals I had for myself in high school. While attending McKinney High School, I stayed involved in order to promote school spirit, better myself as a student, an athlete, and contributing my part to the community. I was involved in Student Council, National Honor Society, Greencord, and Younglife. I was on the McKinney High’s Girls Varsity Golf team all four years and was team captain my Junior and Senior years. These experiences have taught me so much about becoming a leader and have brought new skills that I will take with me throughout my life. As I enter this new chapter, I promised myself to continue to work hard and follow my dreams! I’m so excited for the many opportunities and memories I will experience at Oklahoma State University. I know God has a lot in store for me and I can’t wait to see Him reveal it to me. Thank you to the AFSA-IRS for recognizing me and giving me this wonderful opportunity that will assist me financially to pursue my dream of becoming a Physician’s Assistant! Go Pokes!
[July 6, 2022] AFSA at The Grand Ole Opry September 10, 2022
The Grand Ole Opry: What better way is there to start your convention in Nashville, than a visit to the show that helped make country music what it is today. We have arranged a deluxe motorcoach to pick us up at the Embassy Suites at 4:30 pm and then transport our group to a southern-style dinner (location to be determined), and then onto the Grand Ole Opry. We will have reserved seats on the main level in the iconic theatre where we will enjoy the show that has been broadcast live on Nashville radio station WSM since 1925. After the show, the motorcoach will return us back to the hotel just in time for everyone to enjoy a nightcap in the AFSA hospitality room. This is a must-see experience if you visit Nashville!!! The cost for the entire event (transportation, dinner, and show) is $175 per person.
[June 2, 2022] Sad News: Passing of Bernice Yost
BERNICE YOST She was a trailblazer being the first African American female Special Agent hired in all of CI in 1972. She was also the first African American female to be promoted to a supervisory position. In her post-retirement years, she ran an private investigations firm which was housed just a few floors down from the Phoenix SAC office here in Phoenix. Bernice would, on occasion, attend some of our holiday functions and show off the scrap book that she kept of her early years as an agent. Rest in Peace
[February 23, 2022] 2022 Scholarship Applications
The 2022 Scholarship Applications are ready....good luck to all our applicants.
[December 15, 2021] Sad News: Passing of James Edward Glynn
James Edward Glynn, 60, of Matawan, NJ, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 8th, at home with his family by his side. He was married to Lynn Cressman Glynn for 38 wonderful years. James was born at St. Peter’s Hospital in New Brunswick, NJ on October 30th, 1961. He lived in South River, NJ prior to moving to Matawan, NJ. He worked as a Special Agent for the US Department of the Treasury for nearly 30 years until his retirement in 2016. James is predeceased by his parents Frances Kubala Glynn and Edwin Glynn as well as his brother Aaron Glynn. He leaves behind his loving wife Lynn, and his three daughters, whom he was always extremely proud of, Brianna Glynn-Servedio, Deirdre Glynn Reilly, and Kayla Glynn Moutenot. He also leaves behind his two adorable grandsons Ronan James Servedio and Declan Aaron Reilly and his two siblings Patrick Glynn and Eileen Glynn-Carpenter, who always looked out for him. He enjoyed reconnecting with his friends in his retirement and seeking out the best jelly donut in the tri-state area. Over the years he enjoyed many hobbies including photography, HAM radio, playing the guitar, and practicing at the shooting range. He frequently donated blood and platelets to help others. James was a lifelong parishioner of Corpus Christi Church and a brother of the Knights of Columbus Council 3001 South River, NJ. He always enjoyed his time outdoors and loved going for walks, camping, cross-country skiing, monitoring the weather, and gardening. His curiosity of so many things in life made him so interesting and unique. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Visitation will be held from 9am to 11am on Saturday, December 11th at Day Funeral Home 361 Maple Place, Keyport, NJ 07735, followed by an 11am service at the funeral home. Interment will take place at Old Tennent Cemetery, Manalapan, NJ. All are welcome to celebrate James’s life with his family.
[October 20, 2021] Fundraiser for Randolph Gregory 12th year of ALS Battle
[July 29, 2021] Convention 2021 Registration Open
2021 AFSA Convention The Embassy Suites Hotel Napa Valley Napa, California November 7-10, 2021 Greetings to Everyone!!! On behalf of your Board of Directors and your On-Site Host, Mark Lessler, I’m excited to announce that registration is now open for our Annual Business Meeting and Convention. As you might have already seen from e-blasts that were sent out over the past month, our convention this year is being held in the beautiful Napa Valley, California from November 7 – 10, 2021. We are excited to be holding our meeting and convention on the West Coast this year, and for having it in such an iconic area of the United States. If you missed the previous announcement, don’t worry…everything you need to know is included in this article. Also included is the official registration form. Just as we did for our last convention, we encourage you to complete the registration form on-line and then mail your check to Gerard Dupczak (his address is listed on the bottom of the registration form). By completing the form on-line, your information is automatically downloaded directly into the program just as you input it. Your reservations, selections, and even your name badges are printed just as you want them. Now, if you don’t have internet access or you just prefer not to input it yourself…No Fear!!!...Gerard will input it for you. Simply complete a hard copy of the attached form and send it to him with your check. He’ll take care of the rest. To access the on-line registration form, simply go to the AFSA website at www.AFSA-IRS.org, click on the “Convention” tab and there you will find the link for the registration form. One very special note…and I’m not just saying this to say it…Please get your reservations in as early as you can. There are two very good reasons. First, the Embassy Suites is a very nice and very popular hotel. They are well-known for their made-to-order breakfast in the morning and their Manager’s Happy Hour every evening from 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm in the hotel lobby. They have no trouble filling rooms and they are generally sold out year-round. They have made us a very generous offer on our rooms starting at $173.00 and they are allowing our group to stay at the convention rates for up to two additional days prior to our convention and two additional days following our convention. However, your reservation MUST be received by them prior to the registration deadline in order to guarantee a room and to guarantee the AFSA rates. Please, think it over and make your Embassy Suites reservations by September 3, 2021. Reservation options are listed near the top of the Registration Form. Second, all of the tours that we are offering have limited capacity in the tour busses and reservations are being accepted on a first come-first served basis. Once a bus is full, all I can do is add you to the “back-up reservation” list. If I have a cancelation, then I will go to the list and call the top name on the list. In the event you paid but end up on the back-up list and you don’t make the trip…don’t worry...the trip fee you paid will be refunded to you. You won’t pay for anything you didn’t receive. The following is a day-by-day summary of what is planned for the convention. Saturday, November 6, 2021 Pre-Convention Activities: With the flexibility of being able to check-in at the Embassy Suites up to two days early, we decided to try a new feature for this convention and schedule a couple of pre-convention activities for those who wish to take advantage of the opportunity. We believe that many will choose to travel on either Friday, November 5th or on Saturday, November 6th resulting in a smaller group of dedicated wine-enthusiasts who will wish to take in an extra wine tour or two. (With about 500 wineries in the area, there are plenty of choices from which you can choose.) The plan for Saturday afternoon will be approximately a two-hour tour at the Inglenook Winery in nearby Rutherford, California. Francis Ford Coppola is the owner, and I am told that this winery is an amazing venue with fabulous wines. There will be a walking tour plus tasting in their “Members Room”. Our tour and tasting will be followed by a dinner at one of the many local eateries in the area. Rutherford is about 14 miles from Napa and transportation will be on your own…either by car or by Uber. The cost of the tour and tasting will be $75.00 per person. Dinner will be on your own too. I have been advised by Mark that not only is the wine in the Napa Valley among the best in the country, but the food and quality of restaurants is second to none. Depending on your travel arrangements, coming in on Saturday allows you to make one or both of these events, or simply traveling on the day before the start of our convention, will allow you to be first in line for the made-to-order breakfast on Sunday morning at the Embassy Suites. Think about it. We will also have your registration packets available as well. Sunday, November 7, 2021 Registration: Sunday will be the official start of the convention and will be the day of arrival for most. You will have the option of driving or flying into any of the three major airports located in the cities of San Francisco, Oakland, or Sacramento, and then commuting by bus or rental car for the approximate 60-mile trip to Napa Valley. If it can be arranged, some group transportation might be possible for those not desiring a rental car during the convention. Another option would be for two or three individuals or couples to pre-plan their arrival times and take advantage of riding together and sharing the cost of a rental vehicle. Self-parking will be available at the hotel for only $10.00 per day. A registration table will be available in the lobby by noon. Event One – At this time, we do not have any group tours or tastings scheduled for Sunday. If one can be arranged, then Executive Director Mary Ruiz will notify everyone with an eblast and provide details on signing up for it. Some items being considered include either a late afternoon tour and/or tasting at a near-by local winery, or possibly a sightseeing tour of the Napa Valley and the surrounding area. Either way, it will be affordable, interesting, and fun. Event Two - The second event will be our annual President’s Meet and Greet from 6:00pm to 8:00pm where everyone will be able to gather and see some old friends and meet some new ones. This year’s Meet and Greet will be held in the hotel’s Wine Barrel Terrace and will feature several food stations with comfort foods such as sliders, wings, and a salad…plus a variety of liquid refreshments. The cost of this event is included in your registration fee. To top the night off, we will, of course have our hospitality room open where conversations and nightcaps will be plentiful (as they will be every night). Monday, November 8, 2021 Bob Manzi Memorial Golf Tournament – Our traditional Bob Manzi Golf Tournament, played annually in memory of one of our former members, will kick things off on Monday morning at the very prestigious Eagle Vines Vineyards and Golf Club in American Canyon, California. Eagle Vines is the premiere Napa Valley golf course situated in the foothills with vineyard views in every direction. It was founded on the believe that nature and golf were meant to co-exist in magnificent harmony. Eagle Vines has made a profound commitment to protect the extraordinary natural environment of the beautiful Napa Valley. As has been the case in past years, it will be set up in the usual four-person scramble format. The cost will be $90 per person. So far, we already have 12 individual who have signed up, so there is plenty of room for you to play. Executive Director Ruiz is coordinating the tournament so feel free to contact her if you have any questions. Napa Valley Day Tour or Day-On-Your-Own – If you’re interested in a narrated tour of the Napa Valley, then this will be a four to five hour bus trip that you will want to select. The trip includes an on board guide who will narrate and talk about the sights along the way, plus a stop at a local town for lunch. Cost for the trip will be $50.00 per person. Good chance there will be the opportunity to do some wine tasting along the way too!!! If not interested or able to take this trip, the rest of the day is yours to plan. Plenty of suggestions will be made available to you. Board of Directors Meeting – Officers and Board Members…Note: Don’t forget to mark your calendars for the annual afternoon Board Meeting that must be attended by all Officers and Board Members. It is scheduled to begin at 4:00 pm and it usually lasts about two and a half hours. Dinner on Your Own – Not yet sure if anything can be planned for this evening, but if not, then it will be a good evening to go out and explore or do dinner on your own. Tuesday, November 9, 2021 San Francisco Tour – This will be an all-day tour by bus that will pick you up in the morning at the Embassy Suites and transport you to the beautiful and iconic city of San Francisco. Sights there are plentiful, and include Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz, Ghirardelli Square, Chinatown, Pier 39, and the many other attractions that the city has to offer. The day will be an on-your-own adventure, and several suggestions will be provided to you. For example, Pier 39 is one of the most visited sights in San Francisco and it is home to shops, restaurants, street performers, Hop-0n Hop-Off Tours, etc. Details are not yet confirmed, but the bus from the hotel will take you to a central location (probably Fisherman’s Wharf or Pier 39) in the morning and then offer a ride in the afternoon to another location (possibly Chinatown) for your lunch. It will return back to its original location and then depart San Francisco by 4:00pm for the trip back to the hotel. The cost for the ride to and from San Francisco will be $50.00 per person. Of course, you will be back in time to enjoy the Embassy Suites Manager’s Happy Hour!!! Optional Day Trip and/or Evening Event – Pan alternative to the San Francisco trip is in the works, but as of the writing of this article, has not been confirmed. It might possibly be a bus trip to a nearby town for a relaxed day of sightseeing and, of course, wine tasting, or it could be a day trip of the very famous Wine train. One this has been confirmed, Executive Director Ruiz will send out an updated e-blast and instructions on how to sign up. If not planned, then it will give you more time for sights or dinner on your own. Wednesday, November 10, 2021 Morning Activities - As in past years, the AFSA-IRS annual meeting will be held this year on Wednesday and will begin with an invocation, an opening ceremony, and a presentation by the Color Guard at 8:30am. Arrangements will still need to be made for our speakers, but we will, of course, invite Chief Jim Lee to attend and have him provide his annual update on what’s happening within the organization. That will be followed by our annual business meeting and election of officers. Lunch will be on your own. Afternoon Continued Professional Development - The curriculum is still being developed and should be available in the near future. If arrangement cannot be made, then consider it another opportunity to take in some of the other sights in the area. The Annual Banquet Dinner – Opening with a cash bar reception, our annual dinner is being planned and will be held in the Pinot Ballroom at the hotel. This cost is also included in your registration fee. In conclusion, Mark is excited about hosting the 2021 Annual Business Meeting and Convention in the beautiful Napa Valley of California and he is anticipating a good number of West Coasters who will be able to travel to this year’s convention…some for the first time. We both look forward to getting through the current “State of Affairs” that we now are experiencing and seeing everyone in Napa Valley this Fall. Stay Safe, Dan Pieschel Mark Lessler Remote Host On-Site Host
[July 27, 2020] Sad News: Passing of Charles Edward Flanik
>Charles Edward Flanik was born on Thursday, June 26, 1930 and passed away on Friday, April 10, 2020. Charles Edward Flanik was a resident of California at the time of passing.
[July 25, 2020] Sad News: Passing of William T. Crowley
William (Bill) T. Crowley, age 80, passed away on July 19, 2020. Bill became a special agent in 1966 with the then Intelligence Division, now Criminal Investigation of IRS's Manhattan office. Later on in his career he became a computer forensic expert for the organization. Immediately after his retirement from government service in 1995, he opened a private investigative business specializing in computer forensic work.
Bill is survived by his wife Fran, 4 children and 8 grandchildren. Bill was an avid fisherman. Bill and Fran's address is:
5990 De Marco Court
Sarasota, FL 34238
The family asks that anyone who wants to make a donation and send a Mass card to contact:
St. Martha's Church
200 N Orange Avenue
Sarasota, FL 34236
Tel # 941-366-4210
[July 20, 2020] Sad News: Passing of Charles Joseph
[July 6, 2020] Sad News: Passing of Richard Renfro
>Richard Renfro, age 74, died on June 25th, in West Bloomfield, Michigan due to short illness. He was born to James and Armentress Renfro on January 1, 1946 in Hamilton, Ohio. As a long time Detroit resident, the Indian Village neighborhood mourns the loss of him. He was preceded in death by his wife of over forty years Jo Ann. >>>Richard was a retired federal agent who served in the Criminal Division of the IRS for 25 years. As a financial criminal investigator and special agent, Richard planned and conducted major investigations, assisting the United States Attorney's office in prosecutions of high-level drug traffickers, and other violations involving financial crimes and narcotics. >>>Viewing and service will be held on Thursday, July 9th at A.H. Peters Funeral Home at 20705 Mack Avenue in Grosse Pointe Woods. Viewing hours will be 10 am - 1pm, with 10 people in the building at a time while maintaining social distancing. Funeral service will be held at 1pm via Zoom. Final burial will be on Friday, July 10th at 10am at Greenwood Cemetery in his hometown of Hamilton, Ohio. >>>Zoom Meeting ID: 7841834762 >>>Password: OQKGPs >>>In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in memory to Men Who Dare, a non-profit scholarship organization whose purpose is to help young men and women in the Detroit metropolitan community who aspire to attend college or trade school but have limited financial resources, www.menwhodare.org >>>Celebration of life gathering at a later date.
[June 2, 2020] Sad News: Passing of Greg Miki
I wanted to pass along the sad news that Greg Miki, a retired S/A from Honolulu died on Saturday last. Greg was a great person, a warm friend, and the best pure financial investigator in our office. He was only retired for two years or so and was only 58. Cancer of the esophagus, diagnosed on May 1, hospitalized on May 4, and gone four days later. Still very hard to believe and accept. He was our firearms instructor and a real rock. He'll be missed.
He is survived by his wife Linda and two daughters.
[May 19, 2020] William R. Schroeder Receives Honorary Membership Award
On December 4, 2019, Past President Peggy Thomas and Parliamentarian Bob Armentrout met with William R. Schroeder and presented him with an AFSA Honorary Membership.
William R. Schroeder is the President of Madison Associates, Inc. He respects and holds in high regard the many retired IRS-CI Special Agents he has hired or contracted in his business. In fact, 80% of his staff are retired IRS Special Agents.
William Schroeder contacted AFSA to establish and administer the James F. Howe, Sr. Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship was established in 2012 and continues to be funded almost entirely by William R. Schroeder in memory and honor of James F. Howe, Sr. James F. Howe, Sr. was a retired IRS-CI Special Agent, an AFSA member and Madison Associates Inc. employee. The goal of this scholarship is to recognize the character, integrity and dedication James F. Howe, Sr. exemplified and to memorialize his high standards as a model for those who follow him in a law enforcement career.
It was my pleasure and honor to present this award to such a deserving individual who was truly honored by the award.
Peggy Thomas
Past President AFSA-IRS
[May 15, 2020] Sad Passing of Floyd David Moore Sr.
[May 12, 2020] Sad News: Passing of Richard Charles Ahern Jr.
>Richard C. Ahern, Jr., 77 of Lisle, IL, passed away May 7, 2020. Beloved husband of 55 years of Barbara, nee Dahlke; devoted father of Patricia (Anthony) Ahern Otero, Michael Ahern, Erin (Timothy) Wiggs and Ryan (Stephanie) Ahern; adored grandfather of Rhianne, Regan and Ryan, Jr. Ahern and Tyler and Spencer Wiggs. He is also survived by two sisters, Margaret Sullivan and Alice Watson Fussell, three brothers-in-law John, Roger and Dennis (fiancé Roberta) Dahlke and two sisters-in-law Darlene (Kenneth) Kramer and Pamela (late Richard) Wells and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Richard C. Ahern, Sr. and Beatrice Hayes Ahern and a brother Arthur Francis Ahern. He was a graduate of the University of Illinois, a retired Special Agent for the IRS (Chicago), long time Treasurer of the Federal Criminal Investigators Association, a volunteer fireman for Riverdale, IL Fire Department and Lisle-Woodridge Fire Department and a Vietnam veteran. Services May 11, 2020 and Interment are private. Arrangements by Blake-Lamb Funeral Home, Lisle, IL. For condolences or to share a memory please visit www.blake-lambfuneralhome.com.
[October 1, 2019] Sad News: Passing of Charles
Charles "Kevin" Cox Hanahan - Charles "Kevin" Cox, 55, husband of Janet Watson Cox, a retired federal special agent, passed away on Thursday, September 26, 2019. Born in Charleston, SC to Charles M. Cox, Jr. and Louise Waples Cox, Kevin was a graduate of Hanahan High School, Class of 1982. Kevin was an avid fisherman and hunter who enjoyed coaching all sports, especially softball. He never knew a stranger and touched the lives of many. As a public servant of the City of Hanahan and Berkeley County, Kevin always had his community at heart. After retirement from the Internal Revenue Service, Kevin enjoyed working alongside his TD Bank Family. Kevin was a loving husband to his high school sweetheart and an amazing son. He was called G-Daddy by his two loving granddaughters, Kaylee and Kinsley Ballentine. What Kevin enjoyed most was his role as a father to his three wonderful daughters, Keri, Chelsea and Ashley. In addition to Janet, his one and only love of 39 years, Kevin is survived by daughters, Keri Ballentine and husband Caleb, Chelsea Cox and Ashley Cox; granddaughters, Kaylee and Kinsley Ballentine and parents, Charles and Louise Cox. The family invites guests to visit on Sunday, September 29, 2019 from 5:00pm until 7:00pm at Carolina Memorial Park Funerals & Cremation located at 7113 Rivers Ave., North Charleston, SC, 29406. 843-797-2222. A memorial service will be on Monday, September 30, 2019 at 10:00am at Hanahan Recreational Department, Field 4 located on Bettis Boat Landing Road. The family asked that guests bring "ball field" chairs to the memorial service to honor Kevin's love for softball. In lieu of flowers, the family will create the Kevin Cox Softball Scholarship Fund to be awarded to a high school senior in Berkeley County. Funds may be donated at a branch of South Carolina Federal Credit Union. Arrangements entrusted to Carolina Memorial Park, Funerals & Cremation. Online condolences may be shared at www.carolinamemorial.com. Visit our guestbook at www.legacy.com/obituaries/ charleston
[July 5, 2019] Sad news: Passing of Gene G. Lunt
Obituary for Gene G. Lunt
Born and raised in Fort Worth, Gene graduated from Msgr. Nolan High School, received a BBA cum laude and MBA at the University of Texas at Arlington ("UTA"). He was honored by the American Marketing Association as the Outstanding Senior Marketing Major at UTA and was in the Beta Gamma Sigma business honor society.
In mid-1972, Gene was commissioned a second lieutenant in the Army's Military Intelligence branch through the Reserve Officer Training Corps program at UTA, after finishing an advanced camp at Fort Riley, KA. He went on active duty in early 1973 and completed the Infantry Officer Basic Course at Fort Benning, GA in April, just after the U.S. ceased hostilities with North Vietnam. His initial active duty commitment was changed to a lengthy reserve duty obligation at that time. Gene later became a first lieutenant and received an honorable discharge in 1980. He served on the Selective Service System Board in Dallas through the 1980's.
Gene followed an earlier interest in white collar crime investigation, turned down business job offers and became a Special Agent for the IRS Criminal Investigation Division. He was highly commended during his career as a financial fraud investigator, starting with being the top student at the U.S. Treasury Agent Criminal Investigator School in Washington, DC. Gene worked with U.S. Justice Department and U.S. Attorney Offices prosecutors in the Southwest on tax fraud and money laundering schemes in various industries. He worked extensively with other enforcement and regulatory agencies. Gene always had a high regard for mission-oriented government and career military service personnel. Throughout all his careers, he always highly admired the people that he worked with.
After retiring from Federal law enforcement, Gene became a compliance examiner/investigator for 10 years. He worked for the NASD (now FINRA), Texas State Securities Board, and State Bar of Texas regulatory agencies. He recognized their important role in protecting investors, clients, and customers in those skilled professions. He worked with and highly respected the many attorneys and businessmen who voluntarily served on State Bar panels that deliberated cases involving regulatory compliance.
Gene lived his life and professional career in a series of vignettes that he found worthwhile and productive. He lived and worked primarily in Dallas for almost four decades and then returned to Fort Worth to be with family in his retirement years. It was always important for him to spend quality time and holidays with his many relatives and he would not trade that for other commitments. He was athletic and loved the outdoors throughout his life. Gene vacationed in New Mexico, Arizona, and Colorado for decades and loved spending time with extended family in New Mexico. Gene enjoyed military history, visited major Civil War battlefields and traveled to the United Kingdom several times during the 80's and 90's. He was a member of the International Brotherhood of Magicians for almost 50 years, enjoying magic as a hobby.
Throughout his life Gene attended and supported higher educational, civic, religious, and cultural institutions. He had developed an appreciation for fine music from his younger days with the Texas Boys Choir. He was an Instructor of business courses at UTA for a few semesters before joining the IRS. He was a life member of UTA's Cadet Corps Alumni Council supporting cadet officers trained there.
To know Gene was to love him. He will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts. Gene was preceded in death by his parents Bernard and Helen Lunt, and his brother Edward J. Lunt.
Survivors: Sister, Mary Rakowitz and husband, Bert; twin brother, John Lunt and wife, Cecilia; nephews and nieces, Christopher Rakowitz and wife, Kate, John Rakowitz and wife, Karla and Eileen Spinner and husband, Brian, Amy Leonard and husband, Mark, David Lunt, Jennifer Hinojosa and husband, Robert, and Kristen Lunt; and numerous great-nephews, nieces and their families with whom he loved to spend time whenever possible.
[May 29, 2019] You are cordially invited
You are cordially invited to a ceremony and reception celebration
IRS Criminal Investigation's 100 birthday.
July 1, 2019 from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM
1111 Constitution Ave NW Washington, DC NW, Washington, DC
Remarks by top CI and IRS leadership and other invited guests
Small Reception to follow
July 1, 2019 from 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Reception at Clyde's of Gallery Place - Piedmont Room
Cost $60.00 per person
RSVP Justin.Cole@ci.irs.gov
[March 28, 2019] CI 100th Anniversary – Celebration
CI friends and family,
As you know, this year we celebrate 100 years as a law enforcement agency. Over the next couple of months, you will have the opportunity to sign up for events, order commemorative items, and celebrate our rich history in a variety of ways. In an effort not to overload you with too much information in one email, we will discuss one event at a time. This email is specifically about the event to be held atAlcatraz on July 22.
We have 2 events planned for Alcatraz. We intend to bring a group of about 100 people to the prison around 3 or 4pm on the 22nd. There will be a tour and a special opportunity to hear about inmates who were incarcerated as a result of IRS charges (or investigations). That tour will cost $40. After 2 1/2 hours, we'll be back on the wharf and will embark on our second event- a 2 hour boat cruise around the harbor with views of the sunset, the golden gate bridge and Alcatraz among other things. Passed appetizers and beer and wine are included in the $110 cost of that cruise.
Obviously we have to pay for these events up front so we will do this in 2 parts. Please RSVP to me if you plan to attend with the total number of attendees no later than April 12th. Once we have the list and numbers, we will send out a request for payment within 2 weeks of that date. This is the only way we can ensure we get the right price for the boats and are not left hanging.
YOU MAY GO TO ONE or BOTH EVENTS. Your choice! Please indicate what you are RSVP'ing for in your email.
(I am going to just Alcatraz and not the evening boat cruise)
(I am going to just the boat cruise and not the Alcatraz tour)
(I am going to BOTH Alcatraz and the evening boat tour)
Please feel free to pass this email on to any friends of CI, retirees, etc who may be interested in going.
Thanks and I look forward to hearing from you!
Justin
Justin T. Cole
Director, Communication & Education
IRS Criminal Investigation
1111 Constitution Ave., N.W, Room #2526
Washington, D.C. 20224
(202) 317-3930 – office
(202) 768-2110 – cell