MIXSON, Marion C. “Hack”, Col. USAF, Ret., was cleared for takeoff for his final flight , on May 19, 2010. Born on Mar. 20, 1918 in Charleston, SC, where he enjoyed his early years boating and sailing. He was educated at Porter Military Academy in Charleston and Presbyterian College, Clinton, SC. Where he was commissioned 2nd Lt. Infantry in 1939. Hack enjoyed a lengthy Air Force career. He served as a B24 Squadron Commander in Italy during WWII and later service in Vietnam. He was involved with the operation of the Lockheed U-2 aircraft for 9 years, and commanded B47 and U-2 Wings in Strategic Air Command. He received numerous decorations including Distinguished Service Medal, distinguished Flying Cross, Legion Of Merit, Air Medal and many service ribbons including, service in North Africa, Europe and Vietnam. Hack was given the Order of St. Maurice & Lazarous by King Victor Emmanuel of Italy and later flew Victor Emmanuel’s son, Umberto, to his coronation in Naples. Following retirement he maintained a Real Estate Brokers Office in Tampa for 20 years. He was a member of Quiet Birdmen, Daedalians, The Retired Officers’ Assoc., Pi Kappa Phi National Fraternity and St. Andrew’s Society of Charleston, SC. He was also active in The Kiwanis Club of Tampa and received the Doyle Carlton Award for outstanding service in 1982, and Legion Of Honor Award in 2004. Hack delivered for Meals on Wheels of Tampa, for 29 years. He was a member of St. John’s Episcopal Church, having served on the Vestry both as Jr. and Sr. Warden. Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Mary Delany Mixson, Tampa; son and daughter-in-law, Thomas H. and Kaye Mixson, Tampa; daughter and son-in-law, Mary E. and Dale Lewis, Sarasota, FL.; son, Clarke R. Mixson, Tampa; 4 grandchildren, Michelle and Daniel Mixson, Tampa; and Zachary and Laura Lewis, Sarasota, FL. , and sister-in-law, Patsy Carte, Tampa. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Sat. May 22nd at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 906 S. Orleans Ave., Tampa, FL. 33606. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Meals on Wheels of Tampa, 550 W. Hillsborough Ave., Tampa, FL. 33603, or to St. John’s Episcopal Church.
In charge of arrangements:
Blount & Curry Funeral Home
605 S. MacDill Avenue
Tampa, FL. 33609
(813)876-2421
