James J. O’Malley, “JJ”, 86, of Oak Harbor, passed away Jan. 6, 2011. He recently moved to San Diego, Calif., to be with his family and passed away peacefully with his step-daughter Beverly Sahmel at this side.

He was born Aug. 4, 1924, in Springfield, Mass., younger brother of Edith Carroll who preceded him in death. He was married to Ona Mae O’Malley for 37 years, she passed away in 1992. He had three step-children, Beverly Sahmel, Jackie Barksdale and Ed Barksdale, seven grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and 10 great-great-grandchildren. He joined the U.S. Navy at age 17 and served for 30 years in aircraft maintenance, rising to the rank of Master Chief.

JJ proudly served in World War II, the Korean and Vietnam wars. JJ and Ona Mae traveled, fished, crafted, golfed and loved each other unconditionally. JJ served as a two-term Chairman of the Board with the Oak Harbor Elks Lodge as well as a volunteer in the Whidbey Island Naval Air Station’s Retired Affairs Office.

Viewing was held Jan. 13 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Burley Funeral Chapel in Oak Harbor. A memorial service was held Jan. 14 at Burley Funeral Chapel. Internment followed at Sunnyside Cemetery in Coupeville. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Oak Harbor Elks Lodge 2362.