Frederick Ralph Sabine
January 21, 2019

Frederick Sabine, 90 of Liverpool, NY passed away January 21, 2019 after a lengthy, hard-fought illness. Fred was preceded into eternal life by his precious daughter Deborah Bopp, parents Ralph and Marian, brothers Rudy and Miles, sisters and brother in-laws and best shipmate RADM Bill Kearns Jr.
He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Exedla (Rita) LeBlanc of Norwich, CT, two sons, Stephen and wife Margie of Orcas Island, WA; Ralph and wife Susan of Va Beach; Grandchildren who he adored, Nathan Bopp and wife Mary Beth, Amy Story and husband Chris, Morgan Sabine, Dana Sabine and Clark Sabine, five great grandchildren, brother Keith, brother-in-law Dick Kane and numerous nephews and nieces who all loved Uncle Freddy. Fred began a tremendous 40-year U.S. Naval career as a “stew burner” onboard subs and retired as Captain.  His career included two tours in Vietnam, six commands, three of which were amphibious at sea.  He traveled to 75 countries during his service. When someone thanked him for his service, he responded: “Thank you for allowing me to serve, I loved every minute of it!” He established many lifelong friends proudly serving and was a positive influence on many a sailor. Fred was an avid quail hunter and looked forward to seeing his “hunting buddies” Len Picotte and James Lynch every season. Nothing excited Fred more than a covey of quail with dogs locked on point. Fred enjoyed his friends at Flex Gym where he was member for twenty years and maintained celebrity status for being the oldest member for quite some time. Rita and he were original members of the Church of the Ascension where he was the “coffee guy” as long as people can remember. He truly was a stranger to no one and treated everyone with equal kindness and respect.
The family would like to thank Dr. Pettebone and the Hema/Oncol/AIC personnel, at NMC Portsmouth for the exceptional and compassionate care he has received during the past twenty years.
Arrangements are being handled by The Cremation Society of VA. Captain Sabine will be placed in the columbarium at Arlington National Cemetery.  A Memorial Mass and celebration of life will be held when the date is scheduled at Arlington.  Donations in honor of Fred can be made to the USO or UDT/Seal Association.