Norman “Crash” Nash, age 81, passed away in his sleep Tuesday, March 28, from lung cancer.

Beloved first child of Ellis and Eala Nash, he was born in Silverton, Colo., and grew up in Alamosa, Colo. His childhood was idyllic with room to roam and play along the Rio Grande and hunt and fish with his dad and uncle. His teenage summers were spent working for the U.S. Forest Service.

After graduation from Adams State University, he fulfilled a dream to fly and became a Naval aviator. He earned his call sign “Crash” early on after surviving three mid-air collisions – each of them out of his control. He proudly spent 31 years on active duty in the Navy and often bragged that he managed to spend all but five of those years in the cockpit.

He had many duty stations including several tours at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, flying the A-6 Intruder during Vietnam and the EA-6B Prowler as the commanding officer of VAQ-133. By example, he made sure that every move by his family was turned into an adventure.

After retirement, the family settled in Issaquah, Wash. He continued working as a Navy contractor for several years.

Later, he spent time following his other passions. He was a canine obedience instructor at Petsmart and was one of the original members of F.I.S.H. He co-wrote the volunteer-training syllabus and served on the board of directors for several years. His favorite times were sharing his interest with visitors to the hatchery.

With his hearty laugh, bear hugs, the twinkle in his eyes and his glass-half-full outlook on life, he will continue to be adored and missed by his wife of 40 years Kristen; children Randy (Lori), Matt (Gynon) and Jenna(Ben); grandchildren Danae and Raine; brother Denny (Linda); sister Donna Kay; and many very dear and beloved friends and shipmates.

He will rest in peace at Tahoma National Cemetery.