Herbert Selig Lichtenberg

West Point, 1955

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Bud Goldstein on November 1, 2009:

October 30th was a day filled with sadness as our dear friend and wonderful classmate,Kelly Lichtenberg, was laid to rest. The day was one that Kelly would have appreciated, filled with good friends from all walks of his life, talking and reminiscing about their very special friend. The day started with a warm and meaningful memorial service at the Jewish Community Center in Harrison, N.Y. Both of Kelly's sons, Scott and Michael, gave heartfelt but humorous accounts of their relationship with their father. Kelly's grandson, Andrew, spoke lovingly of his relationship with his grand-father. The love, respect, and admiration they had for their father and grandfather was so evident in their remarks. Three of Kelly's close business associates, Joel Spector, a friend of 50 years, Alan Gladstone, a longtime business associate, and Karl Goldstein, who shared an office with Kelly for 30 years, all spoke with warmth about Kelly, the person they obviously admired so very much. There were around 500 people at the memorial service and included the superintendent, many of the West Point leadership, and a number of cadets. Following the memorial service, we drove in convoy to West Point for the burial services at the West Point Cemetery. Buses took us from Buffalo Soldier Field to the cemetery. WE should all be extremely proud of the warm and professional way that Kelly's burial was handled by our alma mater. As the funeral procession proceeded from Soldier Field to the cemetery it drove by Michie Stadium where the football captains in their game day uniform stood and saluted to honor Kelly. As we passed the Jewish Chapel, members of the Jewish Chapel Squad stood to salute and render honors to their loyal friend and supporter. These honors were rendered as a fitting tribute to the many things that Kelly did on a continuing basis for our alma mater. Kelly was buried at about 4PM with full military honors. All of the West Point leadership team was there to pay respects, as well as many cadets, friends, and of course, Kelly's classmates. The service was solemn, respectful, and in keeping with Trudy's wishes as to how Kelly would have wanted things done. Following the burial service there was a reception with light refreshments at the Jewish Chapel that was arranged by Lou Gross(54) a long time close friend of Kelly's. The superintendent and his wife also attended the reception. Representing the Class of '55 were Jack Doyle, Charlie Johnson, Roy and Sandra Lynn, Marcia Cathey, Don and Carla Hilbert, Joe and Connie Franklin, Bob and Pat Strati, Richie Miller, Pete and Angie Fikaris, Rod and Pat Vitty, Ken Ginter, and Bud and Dorothy Goldstein. Also present was Bill Heyer a two year cadet and former room-mate of Kelly's. It was wonderful that so many classmates and wives were there to support Trudy and the family. On a personal note, this was a very sad and hard day. Kelly and I were close friends all through the years. His loss will be felt by me in so many ways. A very good and generous man is gone way too soon. He will be missed so very much by so very many.

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