Fonso James Chandler, 73, longtime Oak Harbor resident, died at his home on April 16, 2002.

Mr. Chandler was born in Autauga County, Alabama, on Sept. 2, 1928, to Noah Davis Chandler and Lela W. (Holley) Chandler. He was raised in Elmore County, Ala., and moved to Walton County, Fla., where he attended Paxton High School. Following high school, he entered the US Navy, serving in World War II and the Viet Nam Conflict. He retired as a chief petty officer after 20 years of service to his country.

Mr. Chandler was married to Pauline Ramey on Oct. 22, 1955, in Virginia. Following his retirement from the Navy in 1965 in Texas, they moved to Whidbey Island. He became employed as an electrical foreman for civil service at Whidbey Island Naval Air Station, retiring after 15 years. He was a member of VFW Post No. 7392, American Legion Post No. 129 and the CPO Club. He enjoyed fishing, football and golf.

Mr. Chandler is survived by his daughter Sandi Pauley and husband Barney of Bothell; two grandchildren, Shawna and James Pauley, both of Bothell; two sisters, Montrell Sandoval of Pensacola, Fla., and Marilyn Parker and husband David of Robertsdale, Ala.; one brother, Billy Jean Chandler of Pensacola, Fla.; one sister-in-law, Joyce Chandler of Pensacola, Fla.; also, numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife Pauline on Aug. 6, 1988, and by three brothers, Lloyd M. Chandler, N. Davis Chandler, Jr. and Lane Chandler.

A memorial graveside service was held April 19 at Maple Leaf Cemetery, with Skagit Hospice Chaplain Wayne Stiles officiating. Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association, 4414 Woodland Park Avenue North, Seattle, WA 98103. Arrangements under direction of Burley Funeral Chapel.