Reuben Deken, a resident of Anacortes, was 22 years old.

Born in Torrance, Calif., he entered the Navy in the Delayed Entry Program Feb. 29, 2000.

He completed Recruit Training at Great Lakes in October 2000, after which he attended Aviation Electronics Technician “A” School, completing the course in April of 2001.

He arrived at NAMTRAU Lemoore, in April of 2001, earning Naval Enlisted Classification 6618. He reported to AIMD Whidbey Island Expeditionary Logistics Unit in August 2001.

He deployed to Marine Corps Air Station, Iwakuni Japan from July to October 2003 and on board the USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) from March to May 2004.

He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and a letter of appreciation from NATTC Commanding Officer in April 2001.

He was an excellent technician, Sailor and friend, always eager to lend a hand. He loved to travel, go on camping trips, play softball and other command-sponsored sporting events. His strong work ethic was an inspiration to other Sailors.

His father Michael, mother Janice, brother Jesse, and sister Shanna, all living in Oxnard, Calif., survive him.