David Gordon Boak, 82, Was Veteran, NSA Chief

David Gordon Boak, 82, of Annapolis, Md., and Oak Bluffs died April 9 at the Genesis Eldercare, Spa Creek Center, in Annapolis after a one-year battle with cancer. He was 82. He formerly lived in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Mr. Boak was born June 19, 1923, in New Rochelle, N.Y. He earned his bachelor's degree from the University of North Carolina, graduating in 1947. He went on to earn his master's degree from George Washington University in 1952. He also was graduated from the Air War College and attended the Federal Executive Institute.

Mr. Boak began his intelligence career with the Office of Strategic Services in World War II, serving as an Army sergeant in Africa, Europe and China. He worked with the Army Security Agency in 1948 and 1949.

Mr. Boak spent much of his career with the National Security Agency (NSA), becoming chief of NSA, Pacific. He retired after 40 years. He was commandant of the National Cryptologic School.

Mr. Boak enjoyed fishing, tennis and golf. His interests also included painting, carving and ornithology. He was a member of the Episcopal church.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Campbell Boak, whom he married in 1950, and brother Robert Boak of Hasking Ridge, N.J., along with numerous nieces and nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews and grandchildren. He was predeceased by his brother, Joseph Boak 3rd.

Memorial services will be held April 18 at 1 p.m. at the John M. Taylor Funeral Home Chapel in Annapolis. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the American Cancer Society of the Washington National Cathedral. Online condolences may be made to www.johntaylorfuneralhome.com.