Bruce B. Nyland lost his life in a kayaking accident near Klipsan Beach, just north of Long Beach, Wash., on June 29, 2010. He will be forever in our hearts. Bruce was born in Longview, Wash., on Aug. 22, 1946 to Harry and Coral (Henion) Nyland. The family eventually settled in Dash Point near Tacoma.

Bruce graduated from Stadium High School in 1964 and went on to receive a bachelor of science degree from Evergreen State College in 1974. Bruce worked as a diver and then as a carpenter until his retirement in 2008. Bruce was preceded in death by his father, Harry, in 1993. Bruce is survived by his wife of 26 years, Mary (Whidbey Island); his mother, Coral (Tacoma); his sister and brother-in-law, Coyia and Dan Keables (Federal Way); and his brother, Mark (Tacoma). Bruce is also survived by numerous nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends.

A memorial celebration of Bruce’s life will be held at the Cornet Bay Environmental Center (Cornet Bay Full Camp) on Sunday, Aug. 22, from 2 to 4 p.m. The Center is located in Deception Pass State Park at 400 W. Cornet Bay Rd. on Whidbey Island (98277). Memorials can be made to the South Pacific County Technical Rescue at P.O. Box K, Seaview, WA 98644 (1-360-244-2720); or the gift of life may be made by becoming an organ donor. Arrangements are in the care of Evans Funeral Chapel & Crematory, Inc., Anacortes, and the San Juan Islands. To share memories of Bruce, please sign the online guest register at www.evanschapel.com.