Chief Oliver Alvis Tamplen, known to his shipmates and friends as “Big Al,” age 75, United States Navy Chief Petty Officer (Retired), was called home to the Lord on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, in Chesapeake, Virginia, after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease.
A proud native of Texas, Al was a true cowboy at heart who dedicated his life to his country, his family, and his steadfast Christian faith. He served a distinguished career in the United States Navy, embodying the core values and unbreakable brotherhood of the Chief Petty Officer’s Mess. He was legendary for his sea stories—especially those from his time running the Mess—and he took great pride in ensuring, with a grin, that the Chiefs always ate better than the Wardroom Officers.
Beneath the uniform, Al was a creative soul with a vibrant zest for life. He loved photography, writing poetry and stories, playing his guitar, and singing—especially when a karaoke microphone was nearby. He laughed loudly at goofy movies and cooked massive pots of Texas-style chili, always preparing enough to feed a ship’s company. He loved the freedom of the open road and spent many miles riding his Harley-Davidson Road King with his motorcycle club, the Road Toads.
A man of deep faith, Al knew exactly where he stood with his Savior. Though illness slowly took his mobility and his voice in his final years, it never touched his spirit. Per his wishes, he was dressed for his final journey in his western suit, cowboy hat, and boots. His family takes profound comfort knowing he is walking through the pearly gates—his body healed, his voice restored, stepping through in his boots.
Al was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Dianne. He is survived by his two sons, James of Chesapeake and Stuart of Abilene, Texas; his cherished grandchildren, Rachel and Jacob; and a tight-knit circle of friends and shipmates.
He adored his grandchildren and took great interest in their dreams. He encouraged Rachel’s love of acting and music, often tuning her guitar or gifting her a personalized guitar strap. He equally championed Jacob’s lifelong ambition to work on the railroads as a train engineer and conductor. He also carried deep pride and love for his son Stuart, whose strength, independence, and Texas roots reminded him so much of himself. Even across the miles, he followed Stuart’s life with a father’s pride and a cowboy’s heart.
In his final years, Al and his eldest son, James—a retired Navy Lieutenant Commander—rebuilt a strong and meaningful bond. James had the profound honor of standing the watch as his father’s primary caregiver until the very end, ensuring the Chief was well taken care of.
A memorial service with Full Military Honors will be held at Altmeyer Funeral Home located at 929 Battlefield Blvd. S., Chesapeake, Virginia 23322on May 29, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Following the service, Chief Tamplen will fulfill his lifelong wish to return home to Texas for his final rest.
Fair winds and following seas, Chief. You stand relieved. We have the watch.
