Kenneth LeRoy Maris, 71, died at his home in Oak Harbor on August 30, 2009. He was born July 10, 1938 in Byers, Kan., to Ray and Eunice Maris. Ken enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1957. He served over 22 years, retiring as the Command Master Chief (AVCM) from VAQ-135 Black Ravens.

From 1980 to his second retirement in 1995, Ken worked for many of the military contractors aboard Whidbey Island Naval Air Station. Ken enjoyed wood working, fishing, camping and golf. He was a real people person.

Ken is survived by his wife Roberta at the family home; one son, Mark A. Maris and wife Suzanne of Oak Harbor; a brother, Ed Boyd of Colorado; and two sisters, Doris Brown of New Mexico and Dorothy Brown of Arizona.

Ken requested no formal funeral services be conducted. Cremation was held with private family inurnment to follow at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to Burley Funeral Chapel, Oak Harbor.