Merle K. Harmon, who lived outside of Oak Harbor in the West Beach area from 1982 until 2003, died Nov. 7 in Seattle.  He was born December 1, 1917, in Cleveland, Ohio.  After finishing high school in Mount Pleasant, Mich., he studied chemistry in college, earned a graduate degree at Purdue University, and was recruited during World War II to help develop the atomic bomb at the University of Chicago, then Oak Ridge, Tennessee, and finally Hanford Atomic Works.  While living in Richland, Wash., he worked at Hanford for almost 40 years, most of that time in managerial positions. 

In 1942, Merle married Sonja Petrofsky, who shared his enthusiasm for outdoor activities, music, the company of friends, traveling, and community involvement.  The 63-year marriage was exceptionally harmonious.  Merle was handsome, courteous, affectionate, meticulous, and always good for a humorous quip or pun.  His wife Sonja, daughter Alexandra (Sasha) Harmon, son-in-law Jim Douglas, and grandson Owen Douglas survive him.  The family plans a small private gathering to commemorate Merle’s admirable life.