Gerald Leon Hammond of Oak Harbor passed away peacefully at home on the morning of April 9, 2014.

Gerry was born on Nov. 15, 1924, to parents Atlas and Eva (Byers) Hammond in Cambria, Ill. Gerry married his high school sweetheart and love of his life, Kathleen (McLaughlin) Hammond, in St. Peters Church in Memphis, Tenn., on Aug. 11, 1943, after joining the Navy. They were happily married for 68 years.

He served in the U.S. Navy during WWII as a radioman/gunnery instructor for SBDs, crewed on PBMs and also was part of the occupation forces in Japan.

Soon after the war ended he returned to civilian life and attended the University of Missouri, graduating with a degree in mechanical engineering. His career as a professional engineer moved Gerry, Kathleen, and their five children from Illinois to California and later to Washington state. Gerry was a Scoutmaster with the Boy Scouts and an avid car collector, with memberships in Thunderbird and Mustang car clubs.

Gerry was preceded in death by his wife, Kathleen, and his eldest son, Dennis. He is survived by his children Gerry, Michael, Kathleen and Gregory, seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Gerry was a true gentleman, a loving husband, father and friend and he will be truly missed by all those whose lives he touched.

Interment will be at the Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent, Wash., alongside his wife Kathleen and his son Dennis.