John Joseph “Jack” Haun, died at his home in Oak Harbor Jan. 8, 2005, following a lengthy illness. He was born July 31, 1924, in Spalding, Neb., to Joseph and Sophie (Rasschaert) Haun. He was raised on a small farm and attended country school for eight years, living through the Great Depression.

Jack entered the U.S. Navy in 1943 and served aboard the USS Marcus Island (CVE-77) and also with VP-6. He was a veteran of World War II, Korea and Vietnam, serving as a storekeeper. He retired Feb. 20, 1963, as an AK-1 (E-6). He was most proud of his service to his country.

Following his retirement, Jack began work for Oak Harbor School District, serving as a custodian at Crescent Harbor Elementary. He then accepted a position as warehouseman for the school district. He spent the next 15 years working at the warehouse. He was married to Achsah Wright-Owens March 3, 1978, in Oak Harbor.

Jack was known for his lush vegetable gardens plus the joy in bringing old farm remedies a new life. He was an amazing cook and gave to others through his passion for gardening and cooking. As hard-headed as you were, we will miss you.

Jack is survived by his loving wife Achsah at the family home; two sons, Phillip Haun and Mike Haun and his wife Debbie, all of Oak Harbor; six step-children and their spouses, Valerie Proffitt of Virginia, Pam (Merrill) and Jack Evans of Oak Harbor, Ron Owens of Georgia, Paula and John Conner of Maryland, Terry Owens of Arizona and Becky (Owens) and Greg Eisnaugle of Tacoma; sisters, Francis Pritchard of Nebraska, Margaret Bauman of Minnesota, Mary Ann Vanderloop of Nebraska and Katherine Haun of Brazil; one brother, Joseph Haun of Nebraska; and by 16 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and by his three brothers.

Jack requested no funeral services be conducted. Cremation was held. Burial at sea will be conducted under the auspices of the U.S. Navy with full military honors. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Friends of Home Health, 101 N. Main Street, Coupeville, 98239. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Burley Funeral Chapel, Oak Harbor.