It is with deep sorrow that I write to inform you of the passing of long-time USA Dive Club member Carol Schurtz on January 12, 2025, after a long battle with dementia. 

Carol joined our diving family in 1995.  She had a quick wit and an amazing sense of humor.  As a Divemaster, she took full advantage of our overseas dive program and traveled with her underwater camera to many parts of the world, forming lasting friendships along the way.  Carol also enjoyed diving on local reefs, loved photographing marine life at the Blue Heron Bridge, and participated in local diving events.  She was among the first to sign up for Club parties, always making sure to “dress up” for the occasion. 

For many years, she served diligently as USA Dive Club’s topside and underwater photographer, and her creative talents truly shone when she put together our Club scrapbooks.  In recognition of her contributions, Carol attained Hall of Fame status in 2010 and became a lifetime member. 

Below is a link to an album that showcases some of Carol’s memorable moments: 

**Remembering Carol Schurtz** 

if you would like to send your condolences to her son, Andrew, please use the following address: 

Andrew Schurtz

495 13th Lane SW 

Vero Beach, FL 32962-6482 

Carol expressed her wishes many years ago, requesting that her ashes be spread at the Blue Heron Bridge.  The plans for her celebration of life are underway, and details will be provided once they are finalized.

We wish "Happy Bubbles Forever" to our Photo Mermaid!

I’m excited to introduce some amazing new members to our USA Dive Club family! 

Let’s give a big, warm welcome to Sandy and Steve Smith, who were encouraged to join by their diving buddy, Karin.  Karin discovered our club while diving in the Lembeh Strait.  Sandra is an Advanced Open Water diver, and her husband, Steve, holds a Master Scuba Diver certification.   Although Karin is based in Nevada and the Smiths in Oregon, they’re all set to dive together on our upcoming trip to the Philippines in 2025.

We also have Todd Alger joining us from Boynton Beach, where he’s soaking up the sun from January to April. Todd met some of our members on the Loggerhead dive boat last year and couldn’t resist becoming part of our community. 

With 2,000 dives under his belt, he’s an Advanced Open Water diver.  His most memorable dive was the Torpedo Ray dive.  Todd is looking forward to ticking off that three-tank lobster dive to the north shore from his to-do list.  If he’s not diving, you can usually find Todd shooting hoops on the basketball court.

When you see Sandra, Steve, or Todd at our dives, meetings, or social events, be sure to give them a friendly hello and make them feel right at home.  Let’s show them the warmth and camaraderie that our club has to offer.

Don't forget your loved ones on Valentine's Day, Friday, February 14th.

Join us at our in-person meetings to connect and socialize with fellow dive enthusiasts and be entertained and educated by our guest speakers.  Feel free to bring along a friend or two—it’s a great way to make new memories together.  You won't regret it.

As always, we invite you to browse through our extensive Photo Gallery to take a look at our social and diving activities.