William D. W. Grimes ’59

William D. W. Grimes ’59, of Rumney, N.H.; Aug. 10, after a brief illness. He served 31 years in the U.S. Air Force. Before retiring from active duty in September 1990, he commanded several organizations related to special projects and was instrumental in the success of the Big Safari program, which is responsible for the acquisition, modification, and worldwide logistic support of special-purpose weapon systems for the United States Air Force. He re-entered government service in October 1990 as deputy to the assistant to the Air Force Logistics Command (AFLC) Commander for Special Projects. He earned major awards and decorations, including the Legion of Merit Air Medal with 14 Oak Leaf Clusters, the Air Force Association 2002 Civilian Senior Manager of the Year, and a “Peace Mate” award from the Royal Australian Air Force. He served as an Air Force Scientific Advisory Board Ad Hoc Member, was inducted into the Big Safari Hall of Honor in San Antonio, Tex., and was named an honorary U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sergeant. He enjoyed traveling to six out of seven continents with his wife, gardening, fishing, hunting, woodworking, jigsaw puzzles, and practical jokes. He is survived by his wife, Judy Darling Grimes ’61; three daughters; four grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.