Cecil Edward “Ed” Wallace, Sr, 68, died Feb. 25, 2012, at Whidbey General Hospital, Coupeville. He was born Aug. 9, 1943, in Sprott, Ala., one of four sons born to Jonah and Mary Wallace. Ed was raised in Alabama and at the age of 17 enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He was married the Marilyn Sherman in Long Beach, Calif., on April 4, 1964.

Ed’s military service took him to San Diego, Tenn., and finally to Whidbey Island Naval Air Station. Ed retired from the Navy on Nov. 12, 1979, as and EDC (E-7). That same year he was hired by the Oak Harbor Police Department as a patrol officer and Ed began a second career. He also went on to receive his Associate of Arts degree. Ed loved his service to the community of Oak Harbor.

As collateral training, Ed also completed certification as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and maintained that training level for many years, providing medical treatment to the sick and injured he encountered as a police officer. Ed retired from law enforcement in 1997 as a sergeant. Ed was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing and guns. He was also a very skilled gunsmith.

Ed is survived by his wife of 47 years, Marilyn at the family home; one son, Cecil Edward Wallace, Jr. of Oak Harbor; and one daughter, Lorinda Niemeyer and husband Drew of Virginia. His mother Mary Wallace of Florida, three brothers Charles, Kurt and Ricky Wallace and two grandchildren, Cynthia Cota of Las Vegas and Miles Niemeyer of Virginia also survive. His father Jonah preceded him in death.

Ed. requested no formal funeral services be conducted. Cremation was held with private family inurnment to follow. Memorials may be made to Concerns of Police Officers, Inc, PO Box 3199, Camdenton, MA 65020 or www.nationalcops.org. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories and condolences at www.wallinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements entrusted to Wallin Funeral Home & Cremation, LLC, Oak Harbor.