Henry A. “Hank” Besherse, 83, longtime Oak Harbor resident, died at Life Care Center of Skagit Valley in Sedro Woolley on Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2005.

Mr. Besherse was born March 12, 1922, in Waurika, Okla., to Solomon Besherse and Sarah (King) Besherse. He moved with his family to Whidbey Island from New Mexico in 1937. Hank was married to Helen Vandenburg on July 20, 1941 in Sedro-Woolley.

He served his country in the Army during World War II, receiving the Silver Star medal. Following his honorable discharge on Feb. 9, 1946, he was employed by Civil Service at NAS Whidbey as a truck driver for 36 years, retiring on May 30, 1984. Hank and Helen together were charter members of the Oak Harbor Church of the Nazarene, and served there actively for many years.

Hank is survived by his two sons, Alvin Lewis Besherse of Sedro-Woolley and Doug Besherse and wife Jayne of Okanogan; five grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; also, several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife Helen on July 26, 1993, and by two brothers and one sister.

A Graveside Service will be Monday, Oct. 24, at 1 p.m. at Sunnyside Cemetery, Pastor Ivan Lathrop officiating. Memorials may be made to the Salvation Army, 3001 R Ave. #100, Anacortes, WA 98221. Arrangements under direction of Burley Funeral Chapel.