Phil Litrenta, 65, died at home June 6, 2011, after an extended illness. He was born Oct. 2, 1945 in Kellogg, Idaho, to Thomas A. and Phoebe Couch Litrenta. He attended schools in Seattle and Tusayan, Ariz., graduating from Grand Canyon High School in 1963.

After graduation Phil joined the US Navy, where he served as an Aviation Electronics Technician retiring in August 1986. He served at many duty stations including NAS Jacksonville, NAS Keflavik (Iceland), NAS Olathe (Kansas), NAS Quonset Point (Rhode Island), and his favorite, NAS Whidbey Island.

In April of 1975, Phil married Maria Rossi in Johnston, R.I., and together they raised their son Thomas. Skiing, camping and fishing were always part of any family vacation. Phil coached youth soccer and was always active.

Phil participated in many sports but sailing his Pelican sailboat, Williwaw, was his passion. He was a member of the Oak Harbor Yacht Club, The Viking 3 Pelican Fleet, The Deception Pass Power Squadron and The Whidbey Island Naval Sailing Association. He also was a member of the Whidbey Island Kite Flyers and the Thursday Night Cribbage Group.

Phil is survived by his wife of 36 years, Maria, at the family home; his son. Thomas Anthony Litrenta of Seattle; grandchildren, Marcella and Augustino of Seattle; two sisters, Peggy Woollery and Phyllis (Jay) Miller, both of Cottage Grove, Ore.; along with many nieces and nephews in Idaho and Oregon. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers and our sisters.

Memorial services will be held for Phil on Saturday, June 11, at 11 a.m. at Burley Funeral Chapel, followed by military honors and burial at sea with the US Navy. The family suggests remembrances be made to the Oak Harbor Youth Sailing Association, PO Box 2876, Oak Harbor WA 98277 or the charity of your choice. Friends may go online at www.burleyfuneralchapel.com to sign a guest register and leave memories for the family.