More detail on this person: MICHAEL "PETE" JARINA 1919-2009
Michael Jarina of Bagdad, Florida passed away Wednesday April 1, at his home surrounded by his
family.
He was born in Stamford, CT on December 2, 1919 to Slovak immigrants John (Johannas) and Suzan
(Zuzanna Babel) Jarina. He graduated Springfield College of Springfield, Massachusetts in 1942.
Immediately after graduation he enlisted in the United States Coast Guard. A year later he
transferred to the U. S. Navy so that he could learn to fly. During a 23 year military career that
spanned three periods of hostilities, he flew almost every type of aircraft the U. S. Navy had to
offer. He finally settled on helicopters as his specialty. As promised in the Navy recruiting
posters, he saw the world, including a years stay in Antarctica. Upon retirement the U. S. Military,
he continued his flying and service to his country by joining Air America with which he flew for 9
years in Southeast Asia in support of U. S. Government operations in Laos and Thailand.
With the end of hostilities he retired to Bagdad, Florida. There was active in Bagdad Volunteer Fire
department, raised a few head of cattle every year and took care of his trees. He was an avid
athlete, having been named to the All American Collegiate Soccer team and twice to the All New
England Lacrosse teams during his undergraduate years. During his military career he was active in
brigade athletics. In retirement he coached the University of West Florida Soccer Club in the mid
1970's.He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Dolores Bardol and their five children: Michael Peter
(Terri) Waxhaw, NC; Veronica Glenn of Gulf Breeze, Deborah Ann (James) Naone of Kapolei, Hawaii,
Mark (Lori), Bagdad, FL; and Stella of Winter Park, FL; as well as 12 grandchildren and 7 great
grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother and 7 sisters.
Visitation and Rite of Christian Burial will take place 6:00 PM on April 14, at Lewis Funeral Home
Milton Chapel, followed by interment 11:00 AM on April 15, 2009 at Barrancas National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged to either the Diocese of Pensacola, Tallahassee Black
Indian Missions, or The Nature Conservatory memo line tribute gift for Michael Jarina/Everglades.
From: Pensacola News Journal
Burial information: Barrancas National Cemetery, Pensacola, FL
This information was last updated 01/02/2019
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Date posted on this site: 01/11/2025
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