Aileen Zylstra, 65, died at Whidbey General Hospital on Dec. 16, 2006 after an extended illness. She was born Dec. 5, 1941 to William and Rose Langan in Wilks-Barre, Penn.

Aileen was raised in Pennsylvania, graduating from high school in 1959. She moved to Oak Harbor in 1969 where she worked part time at the Oak Harbor Elks Club. She also worked in real estate sales which is where she met Roger Zylstra. They were married in 1971.

Aileen married into a ready-made family with Roger’s three daughters, Stacey, Colleen and Jamie. She also brought her two sons John and Michael Troy into the marriage, making for a new family of seven.

In 1980 Aileen and Roger purchased an upholstery business and began their 26 years of business as Island Custom Upholstery. She was recognized by many for her knowledge of fabric, style and ability to coordinate colors and patterns.

Aileen was a longtime member of the Oak Harbor First United Methodist Church. She loved the church and did all she could to support it through her efforts on the Trustees Council and the Walk to Emmaus.

Aileen is survived by her husband of 35 years, Roger, at the family home; her mother, Rose Langan of Oak Harbor; sons John Troy of Eatonville and Michael Troy of Elma; three stepdaughters, Stacey Gillette of Shoreline, Colleen Zylstra of Issaquah and Jamie McCausland of Kirkland; and 11 grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Visitation for Aileen will be held at Burley Funeral Chapel on Wednesday, Dec. 20 from 2 to 6 p.m. A memorial service will be held for her at the Oak Harbor First United Methodist Church on Thursday, Dec. 21, at 1 p.m. Arrangements were entrusted to Burley Funeral Chapel.