Marvin Alfred Katz, Commander (CDR) United States Navy Reserved (USNR) - Retired
March 31, 1927 – June 08, 2023
CDR Marvin A. "MATS" Katz, USNR-Retired, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2023, at the age of 96, in his
cherished home in Boynton Beach, Florida. He bid farewell to this world, embarking on his final flight across the
celestial skies, piloting his favorite aircraft to his heavenly destination. Born on March 31, 1927, in Norfolk,
Virginia, CDR Katz lived a remarkable and fulfilling life.

CDR Katz's lifelong dedication to serving his country was evident in his 20-year career as a United States Naval
Aviator. He began his journey in the naval aviation cadet training program in Pensacola, Florida. With unwavering
commitment, he fearlessly embarked on countless missions during both the Korean War and Vietnam War,
displaying exemplary courage and skill. His remarkable service earned him several prestigious medals and
accolades, including the World War II Victory Medal, National Defense Service Medal with Bronze Star, Armed
Forces Expeditionary Medal with Bronze Star, Vietnam Service Medal, Naval Reserve Medal with Bronze Star,
Republic of Korea Korean War Service Medal, Navy's Noel Davis Award, and numerous other service medals,
badges, commendations, and ribbons.

After retiring from the military, CDR Katz continued to soar to new heights as a commercial pilot. Over the course
of 19 years, he captained DC-10 aircraft for Overseas National Airways, Korean Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and
Garuda Airlines. His exceptional flying skills also led him to serve as a flight instructor, imparting his knowledge
to aspiring pilots. Notably, he transported renowned racehorses, including the legendary American champion
Secretariat, between the east and west coasts. Throughout his flying career, spanning 18,000 flight hours and
involving 22 different military aircraft (single/multi-engine propeller and jet aircraft) and four commercial aviation
aircraft, CDR Katz never experienced a single accident, retiring with an immaculate safety record.
Beyond his love for aviation, CDR Katz cherished his family, finding joy in their presence. He possessed a warm
and welcoming smile, greeting everyone he encountered with genuine kindness. He enjoyed playing tennis, golf,
and fishing. His love for travel enriched his life, and he eagerly explored the world, creating cherished memories
along the way.

CDR Marvin "MATS" Katz is preceded in death by his beloved parents, William "Bill" Katz and Yetta Katz of
Norfolk, Virginia. He leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion to his cherished wife of 54 years, Joan Katz
(Freyer), who supported him throughout his endeavors, his loving caregiver Felicia Samuels, his three children,
Greg Katz, Terri Ferrari, and Stephen Katz. CDR Katz's presence will be deeply missed by his five
granddaughters and two great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy to his life.

A service to celebrate the remarkable life of CDR Marvin "MATS" Katz will be held on Friday, June 23, at 12:30
PM at Rubin Memorial Chapel in Boynton Beach, Florida. Following the service, he will be laid to rest with full
military honors at the South Florida National Cemetery at 2:00 PM. Family and friends are warmly invited to
attend and pay their respects.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests charitable donations be made to your favorite USA Veteran's
charity, honoring CDR Katz's commitment to his fellow veterans and their well-being.

CDR Katz will forever be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his country, his remarkable
achievements in aviation, and the enduring love and warmth he shared with his family and friends. May his
soul find eternal peace as he embarks on his final flight.

To quote a phrase from the aviator's poem, HIGH FLIGHT;
Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of Earth, and danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings; I put out my
hand and touched the face of God.