Vincent P. Zane, Navy vet and SEPTA aide, dies at 64

VINCENT PAUL ZANE JR., who was on a Navy ship during the Cuban Missile Crisis, which brought the world to the brink of nuclear war in 1962, died yesterday of complications of Parkinson's disease.

He was 64 and lived in Prospect Park, but had lived most of his life in Southwest Philadelphia.

Vincent was aboard the destroyer USS Basilone when it was assigned to participate in the quarantine of Cuba after the Soviets had placed nuclear missiles, capable of reaching most of the U.S., in the island nation. The Basilone joined the quarantine, which Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev denounced as an "act of war," from Oct. 24 to Nov. 18. The crisis ended when the United States, working through the United Nations, agreed never to invade Communist-controlled Cuba and the missiles were removed.

Vincent, who served aboard the USS Arcadia, a destroyer tender, before being assigned to the Basilone, was proud to have participated in the drama of the missile crisis, according to his family.

He was an E-4, an electrician's mate in the Navy. He was discharged in February 1970 and began working for SEPTA. He started as an electrician and retired as a subway surface electrical foreman in 1998.

He married the former Agnes Schoettle in 1971.

Vincent was active with the Mummers' Cahill New Year's Brigade for many years, but didn't join the march up Broad Street. He helped with electrical work on the floats to prepare them for the parade.

"He was an integral part of behind-the-scenes action," his family said.

He was born in Philadelphia to Vincent Paul Zane Sr. and the former Florence Simon. He attended St. Barnabas Parochial School and John Bartram High School, and finished his education in the Navy.

Vincent enjoyed gardening, and was fond of his Yorkshire terriers. He was a dedicated fan of local sports teams, especially the Eagles.

"He was a funny guy," his wife said. "He always had something funny to say."

Besides his wife, he is survived by a daughter, Sandra Manton; a son, Peter; a brother, George; three sisters, Dorothy Astrino, Maryann Carelli and Susan Prandeski, and two grandchildren. He was predeceased by his parents and a son, Vincent Paul Zane III.

Services: Funeral Mass 10:30 a.m. tomorrow at St. Barnabas Church, 63rd Street and Buist Avenue. Friends may call at 9:15 a.m. Burial will be private.

Donations may be made to the American Parkinson Disease Association, Crozer Chester Medical Center, Upland, PA 19013.