Dwight Carl Sorenson was born May 17, 1935, to Chris and Evelyn Sorenson in Seattle, raised in Bothell, and passed away at Whidbey Manor, Aug. 9, 2008.

He attended Northshore schools and graduated from Bothell High School in 1953. He entered the University of Washington that year.

In 1957, he met and married Claudette “Penny” Penn. They then moved to Bellingham and entered Western Washington University, graduating in 1960 with degrees in education.

That year they came to Oak Harbor, taking teaching positions in the Oak Harbor School District. He also studied marine biology at University of Hawaii. He received his master’s in education in 1968.

Dwight taught science at Oak Harbor High School for 35 years, retiring in 1995. Penny passed away in 1984.

In 1985, Dwight met and married Clair Hoefel, who survives his passing. Surviving children are sons Eric and Daren Sorenson and Jason Hoefel. He is also survived by his daughter Elizabeth Kees and grandchildren Erica, Michaela, Ryan, Kennet and Callie, twin sister Judith Sorenson Anderson and nephews Jason and Randal Anderson.

Dwight fought a brave and gallant battle against pancreatic cancer for nearly a year.

He was a true renaissance man who enjoyed travel, a good story, a good scotch, great food, and great red wine. He will be fondly remembered for the many stories and jokes he told over and over, and by his family, friends and hundreds of students who passed through his classroom.

At his request, there will be no services, but he would be happy if you raise a toast in his honor, smile, and get on with life. Remembrances may be made to the Whidbey Island Hospital, designated to the MAC Oncology Department, P.O. Box 641, Coupeville, WA 98239.