Stanley V. Willhight was born on Vashon Island May 13, 1914. He was the fifth of six children. He spent his early years on Vashon and at Cedar Lake, where his father worked for Seattle City Light during the construction of the Cedar River dam. At the age of nine, Stanley was orphaned and went to live with his paternal aunt and her husband in Seattle. Following graduation from Roosevelt High School, he worked in logging camps in North Bend, was employed in a compass factory in Kirkland and, as an executive secretary for the REA, served as the local superintendent of a small electric company in North Bend. He later became a watchmaker, owning watch and clock repair shops in North Bend and Cathcart, and a jewelry store in Snohomish.

In 1943, Stanley married Edna Schoell, a school teacher from North Dakota. Stan and Edna had three children, Ora Lee, Stanley and Daniel. In 1952, Stan and Edna moved to Whidbey Island, to Coupeville, where they lived for the remainder of their lives. They were loving parents and shared an enjoyment of books, gardening, music, animals and nature. They found pleasure in walks on the beach, stargazing and the antics of assorted pets. They also spoke fondly of their trips to California and of a memorable month in London.

Stanley participated in various civic activities during his life, serving as president of the school board in Cathcart, on the library board in Coupeville and as a board member of the local United Way. Stan also served on the committee that established Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve on Whidbey Island.

Stanley played the violin and was a talented artist. Throughout his life, he was curious about everything. He read extensively on a wide variety of subjects, including architecture, astronomy, Egyptology and local history. He was also interested in maritime history and, in his younger days, spent many hours sailing Penn Cove and the inland waters. He maintained a lifelong fascination with antique clocks and watches and belonged to several horological associations.

Stanley passed away Nov. 24, 2004, at the age of 90 in Seattle at Harborview Medical Center. He was preceded in death by Edna, his beloved wife of 53 years. He is survived by his son Daniel, of Coupeville; his son Stanley and daughter-in-law Carla of Greenbank; and his daughter Ora Lee and son-in-law Edward Reid of Fresno, Calif. Stan also leaves behind his grandson Daniel Reid of Kirkland and two great-grandchildren, Parker and Rebecca Reid, as well as a neice and nephew, two sisters-in-law, a brother-in-law and their families.

Stanley’s family and friends will miss his independent spirit, his wealth of knowledge and his engaging stories about the “old days.” We are grateful for the many years we shared with him and will miss his vital presence.

Stanley Willhight requested no formal funeral services be conducted. Cremation was held with private family inurnment to follow at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Burley Funeral Chapel.