John H. Hawley, a retired U.S. Coast Guard captain, died May 20, 2002, at his home in Coupeville; he was 82.

He was born in New Rochelle, N.Y. After high school he joined the Navy and completed his hitch in February 1941. When World War II broke out, he was accepted for Navy flight training. Upon graduation, he transferred to the Coast Guard. He remained in the Coast Guard after the war serving in aviation billets until 1950 when he transferred to the Merchant Marine Safety branch where he remained until he retired in 1966.

He loved sailing so in 1967 along with his wife Gisela and son Christopher, he left San Diego, in their 36-foot trimaran for the Caribbean where he spent many happy years living aboard their boat and visiting the many islands.

He moved to Whidbey Island with his wife in 1984. He loved the beauty of the area and bicycled many miles to see it at a slower pace.

He is survived by his wife Gisela of 36 years and son Christopher of an earlier marriage and his wife Stephanie. He was preceded in death by his son Brad Hawley.

In keeping with his wishes no services will be held. Cremation was by Burley Funeral Chapel. Memorials may be made to Home Health Care & Hospice of Whidbey General Hospital, P.O. Box 400, Coupeville, WA 98239-400.