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Charles Max Kemp of Southampton died March 9, 2018, at the Kanas Center for Hospice Care on Quiogue. He was 96.
Born in Gladstone, Illinois, and raised in Burlington, Iowa, Mr. Kemp began his career as a Big Band lead vocalist at age 19 when he was hired by Ralph Webster and began touring extensively throughout the U.S. He went on to play with bands led by Ozzie Clark, Bernie Mann and Ted Nash.
A member of “The Greatest Generation,” Mr. Kemp served in the European Theater with the U.S. Army Air Corps, flying 29 missions with the 388th Bomb Group. A decorated B-17 bombardier, he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal with 4 oak leaf clusters, and the Presidential Unit Citation.
Returning from the war, Mr. Kemp continued his singing career, during which time he met his wife Jane, who predeceased him in 2004, after 58 years of marriage. After marrying he began a career as an advertising executive on Madison Avenue, settling in Patchogue. They were devoted members of the Patchogue Methodist Church where he continued his love of music as a loyal member of the choir for over 40 years.
His other passions included playing bridge, earning many master points and winning several tournaments. He remained a lifelong fan of the University of Iowa Hawkeyes football team.
He is survived by his children, Shelley Kemp of Southampton, and Thomas Kemp and wife Judith of Massachusetts; two grandchildren, Ian Darrell Kemp of New York City, and Claire Kemp of Southampton; a niece, Lauren Davis of Blue Point and many other nieces and nephews; and a sister, Bettye Barter of California.
A memorial service will be held at the United Methodist Church of Patchogue on Sunday, May 6, at 3 p.m.
on Apr 23, 2018