John Martin Wilburn “Papa John,” chief petty officer (retired), born on Aug. 4, 1938, passed away April 1, 2018, with his loving wife, Nobuko, by his side.

He joined the Navy in 1952 and served with the 115 Squadron in the Vietnam conflict and proudly on the USS Midway. John was a proud Navy man and could tell you many fascinating stories of his life in the service.

After serving 20 years, John and Nobuko settled in Oak Harbor. John’s passion was fishing. He lived and loved to be on the water in his boat.

He is survived by his wife Nobuko; daughters Margie Zamora, Nancy Kerin (and husband John) of Las Vegas, Nev.; and son Jack Zamora (and wife Diana) of Carrollton, Va. John is also survived by his sister Patricia Moore of Eugene, Ore., along with six grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews and great-grandchildren.

John was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, a brother and his daughter Catherine.

A celebration of life in John’s honor will be held at 5 p.m. on Thursday, April 5, 2018 at the local VFW in Oak Harbor.

The family suggests donations in memoriam to the Hospice of the Northwest online at www.hospicenw.org/how-youcan help/make-a-donation/

Arrangements entrusted to Wallin Funeral Home, Oak Harbor. Please visit John’s page in the Book of Memories online at www.wallinfuneralhome.com to share memories and leave condolences.