Sherman C. Black, Commander, USN (Ret) passed away at his home in Oak Harbor on Saturday, Oct. 29, 2005 with family and his devoted assistants at his side.

Sherm, 85, was born July 22, 1920 in Blanding, Utah into a large family.  After graduating from the University of Maryland, he began his impressive career in the United States Navy in 1942, was commissioned in 1944, and piloted submarine spy planes; more than just a job, he loved to fly.

Sherm met and married the love of his life of 61 years, Bernise “Bee.”  Their life together included much traveling, including being stationed in the Orient, South Pacific, and Italy, before returning to the States to make Whidbey Island their home in the 1960s. There, he retired from the Navy as a Commander, and embarked on a new career in real estate. He was involved in the community and their church and particularly proud of his involvement and leadership in Kyros and Crusio.

Sherm was a man who lived and enjoyed nature, through bird hinting, fishing, camping and gardening. This handsome, generous and compassionate man earned the love and respect from all he came in contact. His personal motto was “Live to love, love to live.”

Sherman is survived by his daughter Lucinda Mitchell, granddaughter Lisa Turley and husband Ray; his great-grandchildren, Lauren and Megan, adoring and special angels, Rhonda, Carrie, Katie and Jean and his beloved friends. The family would like to acknowledge Friends of Home Health for their wonderful support.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, Nov. 5 at 11 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church of Oak harbor with Pastor David Lura officiating.  Military honors will be provided under the auspices of the NAS Whidbey Island Honor Guard. Memorials may be made to a favorite charity.  Arrangements are entrusted to Burley Funeral Chapel, Oak Harbor.