Jacob R. “Jake” Mehelich passed away on March 17, 2010 at home after a long battle with Parkinson’s Disease. He was born in Wenatchee on Nov. 1, 1930, to Jack and Hazel Mehelich. The family moved to Helena, Mont., where he attended public schools, graduating from Helena High School in 1948. Jake joined the U.S. Navy the same year, receiving training as a parachute rigger. He met and married his wife Helen while he was stationed at the Patuxent River Naval Air Station in 1951. He made Chief in 1955.

It was the Navy that brought Jake and his family to Whidbey Island when he was stationed here in 1961. He was accepted into the L.D.O. Program in 1966 and retired here in 1970 with the rank of lieutenant. He had served with distinction in the Korean and Vietnam wars. Jake received many awards and commendations for his work as an Aviation Maintenance Officer.

After retirement Jake logged, operated a sawmill and ran a boat canvas business. He was also active in the Silver Lake Fire Department serving as a volunteer firefighter.

He leaves behind his wife Helen; sisters Dorothy Lasko and Mary Duffy of Helena, Mont.; sons Jacob Daniel, John Allen, and Samuel David; and daughter Margaret Ann.

Jake was a kind, talented and compassionate man who was loved and admired by all who knew him. He will be greatly missed.

A memorial service to honor Jake will be held at Burley Funeral Chapel in Oak Harbor on Thursday, April 1, at 2 p.m. Condolences may be left for the family at www.burleyfuneralchapel.com.