Capt. John M. Aydelotte, 69, of Deception Pass, Wash., passed away March 29, with family by his side at the Mayo Clinic in Phoenix, Ariz.

He was born in Denver, Colo., May 12, 1947, son of the late John H. and Maryilyn “Haxie” Aydelotte. John was oldest of five siblings. He traveled with his Boeing family, attending Munich-American High School in Germany. He attended Everett Community College studying photography and the University of Washington studying theology.

He had a passion for motorcycles, hot rod cars, classic cars and became a member of the Antique Car Club in Lake Havasu, Ariz. A long-time member of the NRA, he was a mighty hunter; come fall the mountains never failed to see John and his friends stalking prey.

John’s unique presence gave him opportunities in entertainment. As a volunteer of Washington Tall Ship S/V Lady Washington, he was in the movies of “Star Trek-The Next Generation,” “Blackbeard” and “Discovering the Western Civilization.” He participated in the Diamond Divers television series off the coast of Africa.

As an avid boater, he held his U.S. Coast Guard Master Captain’s License for over 35 years. He owned and operated Marine Services at Cornet Bay for 38 years and ran Vessel Assist/Tow Boat U.S. for 35 years. John helped thousands of boaters in distress; his favorite opening line arriving on scene was, “Are you the folks who ordered the pizza?”

He served as a volunteer fireman for North Whidbey Fire District and he co-founded the North Whidbey Water Rescue program. John enjoyed the many boating activities of the Swinomish Yacht Club and Cruising Outposts-Latitudes &Attitudes.

John is survived by his wife of 40 years, Trish Aydelotte; two brothers, Rick Aydelotte (Rita) of Oak Harbor and Tom Aydelotte (Tessa) of Bainbridge Island, and one sister, Delanie Allen of Monroe; one daughter, Jennifer House of Richland; two sons, John A. Aydelotte (Lisa) of Oak Harbor and Jason Aydelotte of Anacortes; as well as eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

He was preceded by his brother Jay Aydelotte who is survived by his wife, Helen Rockey.

A celebration of life will be held at noon Aug. 12 at Cap Sante Marina, Anacortes, and “C” Dock. Cannons will thunder in memory of Captain John at 1300 hours.

Donations may be made in his memory to North Whidbey Water Rescue, 770 NE Midway Bld., #201, Oak Harbor, WA 98277, www.nwfr.org