Briggs N. “Buck” Willoughby, Maj. USMC (Ret), died Sept. 8, 2009. He is survived by his loving wife, Judy; daughters Cheryl (Robert Wolotira) and Julie (Karen Blejwas); son Briggs (Tina Perkins); and three grandchildren, Alena, Adam and Max.

Born Oct. 16, 1934 to Bernard and Myrtle Willoughby in Shamrock, Texas, Briggs’ early years were spent in Colorado. He left to join the Navy where he quickly rose to become a Marine Corps officer and pilot by the age of 21. Following his active duty career, he received a degree in Engineering from the University of Colorado.

Upon graduation he went to work for NASA as a mission controller for the Apollo program and was integral in the success of the moon landings. Briggs and his family later moved to Alaska where he had a successful career with the FAA.

Briggs had a passion for the outdoors, which he passed to his children. He had a special love for the sea and spent much of his happy retirement years with his wife on their boat. He was also a devoted family man and a generous member of his community, being deeply involved in the Lions Club, Oak Harbor Yacht Club and other community organizations for many years.

A celebration of the grand adventure that was Briggs’ life will be held at the family home this Sunday, Sept. 13, from 2 to 5 p.m. In lieu of flowers the family requests a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association or a chosen charity.