William M. Cobb was born on April 7, 1921 at Blakesburg, Iowa. He graduated from Ottumwa High School, and in 1942 he left Ottumwa to serve in the United States Coast Guard during World War II. He served 3 1/2 years as a First Class Petty Officer. Soon after getting out of the Coast Guard, he came to the Tri-City area of Washington State in 1945, where he worked as a nuclear operator for E.I. Dupont, General Electric, and ITT. From 1969 until retiring in 1983, Bill worked for the Bonneville Power Administration in Klamath Falls, Ore., Moses Lake, Wash., and Grandview, Wash.

Bill was the beloved husband of Grace for more than 59 years who preceded him in death. He leaves behind two loving sons: William D. Cobb and wife Jennifer of Edmonds, and John C. Cobb and wife Carolyn of Coupeville; four grandchildren, Adam E. Cobb of Woodway, Jacelyn M. Shiring of Hollywood, Fla., Claire R. Gilfillan of Everett and Jay D. Cobb of Welches, Ore.; and four great-grandchildren.

He enjoyed his family, fishing, boating, golfing, square dancing, and traveling in his motor home. Bill was a member of IBEW for 25 years and Lower Valley Square Dancers for many years. He was also a member of Vista Baptist Church in Kennewick, the American Legion, and NAFE. His family came first and we will greatly miss his loving, caring way.

A memorial service was held at Coupeville Community Bible Church in Coupeville, on Saturday, Oct. 17, at 11 a.m. Private family burial was in Sunnyside Cemetery in Coupeville. Memorials have been suggested to the Coupeville Community Bible Church Benevolence fund or a charity of your choice. Burley Funeral Chapel in Oak Harbor has been entrusted with arrangements. Condolences may be left at www.burleyfuneralchapel.com.