Col. John W. Ambrose III

Col. John W. Ambrose III (USAF Ret.), 68, passed away December 19, 2013, after a courageous fight against ALS for over two years. A native of Pittsburgh, PA, he graduated from Duquesne University in 1966 and also earned two Master's degrees. He had a distinguished 26 year career in the U.S. Air Force, earning the Defense Superior Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, and the Bronze Star Medal. John served overseas with two tours in Vietnam, and numerous stateside bases. After retiring from the Air Force, he continued his career as a defense contractor with General Dynamics, retiring in 2012. John was an active member of Poquoson Kiwanis, Poquoson Exchange Club, and Tidewater Z Car Club.
John is survived by his wife of 47 years, Cecelia "Sis" Ambrose; daughter, Jennifer; son, Phillip; mother, Irene Ambrose; brother, Gary Ambrose; and five grandchildren, Zachary, Zayne, and Sophia Dallal, and Carissa and Maxwell John Ambrose. His father, John W. Ambrose Jr. preceded him in death.
The family will receive friends and family for a memorial celebration of his life on Sunday, Dec. 22, 2:00 PM, at the Poquoson Yacht Club, followed by a reception at the Club. Guests are encouraged to attend the service in John's favorite attire, jeans and a t-shirt. Interment will be at Arlington National Cemetery, with full Air Force honors, at a later date. A memorial mass and reception will be held in Pittsburgh at a later date.
The family requests, in lieu of flowers, contributions to the ALS Association, 1275 K St. NW, Suite 250, Washington DC, 20005, or online at alsa.org . Online condolences to claytorrollins.com . Claytor Rollins Funeral Home, Poquoson, is assisting with arrangements.
"John was loved by many and will be missed greatly by all."

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