Merle Weston Story, Jr. “Cork”, U.S. Navy AVCM, Ret., 64, of Oak Harbor, passed away Sunday April 14, 2013 in Everett, Washington from cancer, with his loving wife by his side.

He was born July 25, 1948 in Puyallup, Washington to Merle and Leona Story. He is married to Jean Story and has lived in Oak Harbor since October of 1971.

Merle served honorably in the United States Navy from September 15, 1966 to January 31, 1991. After he retired from the Navy, he opened and owned his own business building custom cabinets at Cork’s Woodworks. He followed his dad’s footsteps and always enjoyed working with wood. He enjoyed flowers, plants and stamps. He also loved to read and work on crossword puzzles. His Facebook friends from all over the world were a big highlight in his daily routine.

He is survived by his wife, Jean Story; children, Angela Barrett (Jeremy), Jason Story (Beth), Traci Cellona (Roel), Steffani Valdez (Daryl) and Steven Story; nine grandchildren; four nieces and nephews and a sister, Violet Luce (Jeff). He was preceded in death by his parents, Merle and Leona Story.

Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday April 27, 2013 at the NAS Whidbey Island Chapel, 1155 West Intruder Street, Building 960.

The family would like to thank the staff of Providence Hospital in Everett for their care of Merle. Those wishing to share thoughts with the family may do so at burleyfuneralchapel.com