Clarence (Joe) Taff Jr, 83, passed away Tuesday, July 26, 2016.  He was born March 2, 1933 in Hawaii.

Clarence O. Taff Jr graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1956.  After graduating he served several duties:  on the USS Saipan, USS Canberra, USS Greenfish, Navigator on the USS Theodore Roosevelt, Executive Officer on USS Tench, Commanding Officer on USS Blenny then assumed command of USS Bang.  His next assignments were:  Special Projects Liaison Officer UK to Chief Polaris Executive of the UK Ministry of Defense, London, next as Executive Officer of Strategic Weapon Facility, Pacific Banger, WA, followed by Officer in Charge, Strategic Weapons Project Office Great Neck, NY.  He then assumed command of Navy Astronautics Group, Point Magu, CA.  Captain Taff retired in 1986 with 36 years of active service.  His awards include Legion of Merit, Secretary of Navy Achievement Medal and two Navy Unit Commendations.

He is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Elizabeth, son, Clarence III, grandsons, Clarence IV and Jesse and granddaughter, Lauren.

He will be remembered as a loving, humble and patriotic man.  For the past 35 years, without fail, he raised the American flag at dawn and took it down at sunset.  He will be forever missed.

A private service will be held at the Griffin Family Funeral Chapels.