Trabilsy Tribute

Trabilsy Tribute

About the service

Captain WJT, of Vero Beach, passed recently at the age of 94. He was an active member of the Vero Beach Power Squadron (VBPS) where they held a Memorial to him, today, at 11:00, at the squadron building at 301 Acacia Road next to the Barber Bridge. The included photos captured some of the activity.

There was quite a turnout from what I saw. The parking lot was full of cars and there was standing room only leading out the door. The ceremony was conduced by the Squadrons Commander, Robert F. McCurdy (SN). The Chaplin, Frank (Tom) Jones III (S) did the eulogy and some of the attendees, his stepson, neighbors and friends, told a few short stories about Bill and his past experiences with them. After the ceremony everyone was invited to partake of a few hor'derves and drinks. Many stayed to mingle and chat.

About Captain Bill

Trabilcy, William J. (P) was born in 1913. Went into the Merchant Marines at the age of 17. Was around when the King and Queen came to America. He was very active in the VBPS. He taught classes at the squadron and was a member of the Coop Charting Group.

His boat, a Grady White, got launched onto ground. It went with the dock that blew away during a hurricane. It was salvaged.

I went on a Suwannee River houseboat adventure and did some Coop Charting with him about 12 years ago up and down the Indian River. Had a few meals with him along the way at Kelley’s, Mr. Manatees, Squid Lips, Captain Hirams, and of course all the Friday Night Socials. They said he liked clams or was it oysters at Mr. Manatees on Tuesday nights.

There is more but I want his out today so I plan to add to it during the week. Please come back.

(SN) = Senior Navigator
(S) = Seamanship
(P) = Piloting