John B. Dachelet, Major, USA (Ret), 71, of Riverview passed away on Friday, December 3, 2010.

John had a distinguished 30-year career in the Army and was a veteran of the Vietnam war. His service awards included the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation, and Legion of Merit.

Born in Green Bay, WI, John had been a local resident since his retirement in 1992. A member of St. Stephen Catholic Church, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, golf and bowling. He was an extremely proud member of the US Army Warrant Officer Association and an avid Green Bay Packer fan.

He was predeceased by his parents John and Josephine Dachelet. Survivors include his loving wife of 49 years, Sandy; his sons Brian and Brad; and two granddaughters, Kayla and Kristin. Sharing in their grief are his brothers and their wives: Richard and Sami Dachelet, Jim and Chris Dachelet, Tom and Alyson Dachelet, and his sisters and their husbands: Ann and Larry Zwiers, Marie and Bud Wurdinger, Pat and Loui Ulman, and Debbi and Jake Andres.

The family would like to thank the Sands family for all their love and support, as well as their neighbors and MacDill family friends.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at St. Stephen Catholic Church, Valrico, on Tuesday, December 14, 2010 at 11:00 a.m with a reception to follow at 10448 Crestfield Drive, Riverview. Memorial donations may be made to: Pets For Vets www.pets-for-vets.com or the St Stephens' Building Fund.