William Joseph “Willy” Caselden, 66, longtime Coupeville resident, died Feb. 14, 2009, at his home.

Mr. Caselden (known to family and friends as “Willy”) was born in Billerica, Mass., on May 12, 1942. He lived in Pinehurst, Mass., until seventh grade, when he moved with his family to Long Beach, Calif. Willy was a graduate of the Wilson High School Class of 1959 in Long Beach. Following high school graduation, he entered the military, serving in the United States Army, in which he was eventually involved as a military police officer.

Willy moved to Coupeville in 1973 and became owner-operator of Coupeville Farms. He was well known in the area for his garlic and shallots and for his landscaping skills.

Willy is survived by his five children, Rae Lynn Lipold (Tony) of Aliso Viejo, Calif., Randy Willard and Cima Johnson, both of Garden Grove, Calif., Jessica “Jessy” Caselden and Jack Caselden, both of Coupeville; seven grandchildren, T.J. Lipold, Asia Johnson, Roxy Johnson, Lyndsey Velker, Chris Lipold, Derreck Velker and Reise Willard; his brother, Danny Jolliemore (Margaret) of Pennsylvania; also, numerous other relatives. He was preceded in death by his mother, Lillian Dolliver and by his sister, Cindy Caselden.

Visitation will take place at Whidbey Memorial Chapel, 746 NE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor, on Friday, Feb. 20, from 5 to 8 p.m. Those wishing may also pay their respects at noon Saturday, Feb. 21, at Living Hope Foursquare Church, 185 NW Broadway, Coupeville. The memorial service will follow at 1 p.m., Pastor Garrett Arnold officiating. A reception will be held after the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested in memory of Willy Caselden at any Whidbey Island Bank branch. Family and friends are encouraged to sign the online guest register at www.whidbeymemorial.com. Arrangements are with the assistance of Whidbey Memorial Funeral and Cremation Service, Inc.