Schamyl C. Massey passed away on 26 October 2008 in Cape Coral, FL, after a four-year courageous battle against the neurological illness PSP. He was 74 years old. He had a most interesting background and productive life. Mike, as he was known to his many friends, was born in Wyoming and was adopted at birth by a young Army couple. He spent much of his youth on Army posts and at Catholic boarding schools. He finished high school at the Moye Military School in Texas and then attended Hilder Prep in Washington, DC, before entering the Naval Academy under a presidential appointment. As a Midshipman in the Third Company, he was active in soccer, baseball, guitar playing and excelled at springboard diving.

After graduation with the Class of 1956, he served in the Marine Corps, attaining the rank of Captain. After separation from the military, he joined Dupont in North Carolina and earned his license as a Professional Engineer. In 1973, he joined ARAMCO as an engineer and was assigned to the oil fields in Saudi Arabia. This proved fortuitous both professionally and personally. He met Sylvia, who was teaching in an American school there, and they were married in 1976. It was a love affair which lasted until his death. As an ARAMCO engineer, he advanced through the ranks and became an expert in pipeline construction, refinery operations and steam extraction of oil. He eventually became the company’s marine supervisor.

After 13 years with ARAMCO, he and Sylvia retired to Florida where Mike became a commodities broker dealing with currencies and precious metals. They pursued their passion for hobbies such as boating, home repair, golfing (in which Mike maintained a +4 handicap) and general aviation. They both earned their pilot’s licenses and enjoyed flying their own airplane.

In addition to Sylvia, Mike is survived by four loving children from his first marriage, Michael, Christopher, Lori and Tamara; six grandchildren; and seven great-grand children. Mike was an easygoing guy who was loved and admired by all who knew him. He loved the military and cherished his alma mater, which he honored on his Florida license plates, “56 USNA.”