Capt. Bradley Jay Kaplan, US Navy Retired

A true patriot, leader and friend, Captain Bradley J. Kaplan, U.S. Navy, retired, lived a
remarkable life and accomplished a great deal during his 70-year journey. He possessed high
character, unwavering integrity and a genuine sense of purpose. Passionate about learning,
exploring and personal growth, he left “no stone unturned” and reached horizons that were truly
unlimited. Of his many wonderful traits, he was authentic and sincere in his interaction with
others making them feel valued and important.
At the home and in the care of his sister, Pam Pardee, Brad passed away peacefully on June 6,
2022 from complications due to cancer.
Brad grew up in San Diego and graduated from Patrick Henry High School in 1970. He attended
the University of New Mexico on an NROTC College Scholarship and was commissioned an
Ensign in the U.S. Navy in 1974 graduating with a B.A. in English. Following commissioning, he
reported to Naval Surface Warfare Officer School in Coronado, California.
After junior officer tours aboard the U.S.S. Lang and the U.S.S. Merrill where he earned his
designation as a Surface Warfare Officer, Brad was a department head on the U.S.S.
Bainbridge. His next assignment was as a department head on the staff of Commander,
Cruiser/Destroyer Group ONE. Following screening for command-at-sea, he reported as
Executive Officer on the U.S.S. Standly. Later, he assumed command of the U.S.S. Ingraham,
FFG-61 where he served until 1993. After his command tour, he was assigned as Chief of Staff
for Naval Surface Group – Middle Pacific. Accepting a shore assignment and upon selection to
Captain (O-6), he reported to Naval Military Personnel Command as Cruiser/Destroyer
Replacement Officer and OPNAV Surface Warfare Community Manager.
In 2000, Brad served as a Naval Attache’ in the Defense Attache’ Office in Beijing, China. After
screening for major command, he was commanding officer of the Defense Attache’ Office in
Hong Kong, China. Retiring in 2004, he served honorably for 30 years and was awarded the
Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Commendation, Navy Commendation and numerous
campaign awards. Brad’s Navy career was exceptional in every respect and his vision,
leadership, and experience were instrumental in the high readiness and capability of his
personnel and their combatant vessels.

Born August 3, 1951 to Captain Alan J. Kaplan U.S. Navy and Dorthey M. Kaplan, Brad was
influenced by his father to seek a career where he could serve his nation and be part of
something far greater than himself. During his Navy career, he earned a M.S. in Management
from the Naval Post Graduate School and later in civilian life he was awarded a PhD in
Management from the University of Phoenix. A true believer in the power, value and importance
of education, Brad set a sterling example for learning through his many academic
achievements.
Following his Navy retirement, Brad worked for the Navy as Chief of Staff for J-5 Plans and
Deputy Director, China at the headquarters for the Indo/Pacific Command. From 2011 until
2020, he worked for Booz Allen Hamilton in a contract capacity with Commander, U.S. Third
Fleet as Senior Maritime Analyst, from which he retired again in 2020 after a distinguished
career serving in key civilian positions with the Navy.
A caring, supportive and loving husband, father, brother, uncle and friend, Brad is survived by
his sister, Pam, his sons, Jeffery, Joshua and Quinn, grandson, Ethan, niece Perrie Pardee,
nephew Michael Pardee, and former wives Sandy Patterson and Ping Wang. Always seeing the
good in people while making a special connection with each person, he positively touched and
inspired a number of lives across his wide spectrum of endeavors. Brad will be interred at the
Miramar National Cemetery.

Bonham Bros & Stewart Mortuary and Cremation Service is assisting the family.

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