Artemio Salcedo Pasag, 81, was called back to the Lord on March 11, 2011, while at St. Joseph’s Hospital after a brief illness. He was born Oct. 21, 1929 in Pozorrubio, Pangasinan, Philippines to Andres and Feliza Pasag.

Artemio grew up with his nine brothers and sisters on the family farm. He attended school in his birth town, excelling as a pitcher in baseball, the mile run and the javelin throw in track and field.

During this time, the sight of military vehicles of the United States Army driving by was commonplace, and Artemio was always fascinated by them. This only fueled his dream of traveling to America one day.

Alongside his brothers and U.S. soldiers, he fought in World War II in liberating the Philippines from Japanese occupation. After this battle, the United States Navy gave him the opportunity to serve in 1953, bringing him one step closer to seeing his dream come to fruition.

After being involved in the Korean Conflict, Artemio met his wife-to-be, Lolita Dulay deGuzman, in San Carlos City, Pangasinan, Philippines. They married on Dec. 30, 1956, and were moved to Oak Harbor. His dream of reaching America had finally been realized. In a few years, they decided to start a family there, giving birth to (from oldest to youngest) Artemio Jr., Larry Don, and Kathryn. Continuing with his Navy duties, they stationed them in Taiwan and California, where he served two tours of duty in the Vietnam War, eventually returning to Oak Harbor. There, Artemio was honorably discharged and retired, receiving numerous citations and medals for his military service.

Always wanting to keep busy, he worked at the Anacortes Plywood Mill prior to being employed for 17 years at the nearby Shell Oil Refinery, retiring from there in 1992.

Artemio enjoyed gardening, home projects, and family time, especially making pizza and playing golf in the yard with his grandson, Matthew. With his wife Lolita, Artemio later vacationed in the Philippines to visit relatives and extended family, who were always excited to see them.

Artemio is survived by his wife, Lolita, of over 54 years; his two sons, Artemio Jr. and Larry Don; daughter Kathryn Pasag Nienhuis (husband Spencer); and grandson Matthew Pasag Nienhuis, all of Oak Harbor; sisters Lita and Puring, brothers Arthur and Sofrofio of the Philippines; also numerous nephews, nieces, and other relatives throughout the United States, Canada, and the Philippines. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, and five brothers of the Philippines.

Visitation will be held at Burley Funeral Chapel Oak Harbor on Thursday, March 17, from 11 a.m. to noon. Cremation to follow.

Friends and family may go to www.burleyfuneralchapel.com to sign a guest register and leave memories and condolences for the family.