Chad B. Doherty's Obituary
CAPT Chad Doherty, USCG (ret), 71, a resident of Annapolis, MD, passed away on November 7, 2016 after a six-year battle with cancer. A graduate of the United States Coast Guard Academy, Class of ‘67, Chad’s military career took him across the country and around the world, even under the ice in Antarctica.
A beloved husband, friend, brother, father, and grandfather- Chad had an “old soul.” More prone to sitting on the deck listening to Jimmy Buffett than a large social setting, you’d have to pry the stories out of him, but they were always worth the wait. Whether it was cheering on a groggy sea lion, chasing a scientist across the ice, or taking pictures of Coast Guard Academy cadets without any film in the camera so he didn’t have to march in formation, humor was his core.
There weren’t many settings that gave him more peace of mind than sailing with family and friends on Flambeau or Cerveza Fria. Salt water flowed through his veins. His life on the Chesapeake Bay was a blend of competitive racing, cruising from cove to cove, and hanging around the dock “messing about in boats.”
He had a photographer’s eye for finding the shot and the technical ability to develop it. He loved Cajun cookin’, Labrador retrievers, and any time the Ravens stomped the Steelers. He respected straight talk over political correctness, and he believed in the best of this country. He loved his family wholeheartedly, and they loved him unconditionally.
He will be missed.
Chad is survived by his wife, Joan, sons Keith and Kevin, daughters-in-law Jonna and Melissa, grandchildren Aiden, Jenna, and Aubrey, and his sister, Jan.
The family will be hosting a Celebration of Life for Chad this Friday, November 11th from 1-3 p.m. at the Cape St. Claire Clubhouse, 1223 River Bay Rd, Annapolis, MD 21409.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Hospice of the Chesapeake.
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