Father of army chief dies at 95

Father of army chief dies at 95

ANKARA - Anatolia News Agency
Father of army chief dies at 95

Following hearing the news Necdet Özel canceled his participation in official events held at the Turkish Parliament for the celebration of National Sovereignty and Children’s Day. AA photo

Seyfettin Özel, the father of the current Turkish Chief of General Staff Gen. Necdet Özel, passed away April 23 at 95 in a military hospital in Ankara where he was receiving treatment. After receiving the news, the chief of General Staff canceled his participation in official events held at the Turkish Parliament for the celebration of National Sovereignty and Children’s Day. 

President Abdullah Gül, Parliamentary Speaker Cemil Çiçek and other prominent officials have expressed their condolences to Özel.

Seyfettin Özel had also served in the Turkish Armed Forces for many years as an infantry colonel until his retirement. His funeral will be held today at Kocatepe Mosque.