Taras John Datz: May 1, 1945 – May 31, 2019

Taras John Datz, 76, passed away on May 31, 2019 at his home in Oak Harbor, Wash.

Born May 1, 1945 in Ulm, Germany, he immigrated to Wisconsin with his father at age 7. At 17, he joined the U.S. Navy and was stationed around the world, but made NAS Whidbey Island, Oak Harbor, his home. He ascended to the rank of Master Chief Petty Officer. After 30 years of exemplary service he retired in Oak Harbor.

Taras loved to cook and, in retirement, he shared this love by taking on a chef position at Toby’s Tavern in Coupeville, Wash., contributing to potlucks at the Fleet and by cooking with his son and grandsons at every chance.

He is survived by his son, Nick and his wife, Amanda, and two grandsons, Alex and Ben, in Seattle, Wash.

A Celebration of Life will be held 1-3 p.m. Aug. 31 at the CPO club. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the Wounded Warriors fund.