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Retired Coast Guard Lieutenant Commander, Michael Rems has passed away. He was 68 years old. Michael died due to a massive coronary on December 9th, 2006 at 1:30p while visiting his sister and brother-in-law Taine and Joseph Conboy in Lubbock, TX on vacation.

Michael was born in Wellsville, NY in 1938 to Dr. J Paul and Hazel DeVenny Rems. Michael and his sisters, Taine and Karen, and his brother Peter grew up in Belmont, NY.

Michael had a 24-year distinguished career in the Coast Guard. Stationed in Europe in the 60s, Michael met the love of his life, Connie, in Vivero, Spain. They were married in Naples, Italy, where they lived for two years before moving back to the United States.

After signing on as an enlisted man, he rose to the rank of Lt. Commander. He received the Coast Guard Achievement Medal in 1976 for his work heading up the Search and Rescue team in San Francisco, where he was responsible for saving many lives. Michael retired from the Coast Guard in 1979.

Michael followed his love of the sea working in Marine communications for a number of companies, the last being Globe Wireless where he retired in July of 2006.

Michael was a vibrant man who loved life, jazz music, travel, wine, food, friends and most of all his family. His large presence was unmistakable and he will be deeply missed.

Michael is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Connie, his two children Julie and Tony, their spouses David and Norma, and his adoring grandchildren Jacob, Nicole, Joshua, Jessica and Nathan along with his sisters Taine Conboy and Karen Robinson. He was also dearly loved by his many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at Our Lady of Grace church in Castro Valley on January 13th, 2007 at 11a, with a reception to follow immediately afterwards.

Published in the ANG Newspapers on 1/6/2007.