Stephen Gray “Steve” Hornback, 65, 29-year resident of Oak Harbor, died at the University of Washington Medical Center in Seattle Monday, Aug. 11, 2003, following a brief illness.

Mr. Hornback was born in Glendale, Ky., April 10, 1938, to Chester Hornback and Gail (Gray) Hornback-Randle. As a small child, Steve moved with his family to Fillmore, Utah, where he graduated from high school. He then entered the Utah National Guard, and eventually enlisted in the Navy, in which he served for 20 years, retiring June 16, 1976 as a chief petty officer.

Steve was married to Mae Richey on May 3, 1963, at Oak Harbor Southern Baptist Church. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and making jewelry, which he sold at various markets. Steve was a member of Oak Harbor Southern Baptist Church and Island County Rock and Gem Club.

Steve is survived by his wife Mae, at home; two sons, Stephen Gray Hornback II and wife Tammy and Michael David Hornback, all of Oak Harbor; one daughter, Michelle Hornback Chester and husband Michael of Plano, Texas; three grandchildren, Stephen Hornback III of Oak Harbor, and Michael Chester II and Amber Chester of Plano, Texas; one sister, Patricia Randle of Phoenix, Ariz.; one brother, Jim Randle of San Antonio, Texas; also, his step-father, Ross Randle of Twin Falls, Idaho.

A memorial service will be Saturday, Aug. 16, 2003, at 11 a.m. at Oak Harbor Southern Baptist Church, Pastor Grafton Robinson officiating. Full military honors will be presented under the auspices of Whidbey Island Naval Air Station Honor Guard. Private inurnment will take place at a later date. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, c/o Jo Balda, treasurer, P.O. Box 345, Oak Harbor, WA 98277. Arrangements and cremation under direction of Burley Funeral Chapel.