Sterling DeLaine Wells, 76, died Oct. 2, 2004, at his home surrounded by his loving family following an extended illness. He was born May 31, 1928, to Sterling and Madge Wells in Lakin, Kan. Sterling lived in Kansas until he was 17 years old at which time he joined the United States Navy in September of 1945 with Naval retirement in February of 1966.

Sterling was married Sept. 9, 1949, to Patricia Klotz in Seattle. They celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary this September. Whidbey Island became their home in 1957.

While serving in the Navy on Whidbey he also worked at Clint Jenkins garage as a mechanic. Following his retirement from the Navy he continued as a mechanic for 3 years with Trask cCnstruction . From 1968 to 1969 he was employed with the Boeing Company. In 1969 he began working as a heavy duty construction mechanic with NAS Civil Service on Whidbey Island from 1974 to 1982. He then worked in Adak, Alaska, with Civil Service, retiring July of 1989.

Sterling was a life member of the VFW Post 7392, the Fleet Reserve Branch 97, the National Association of Radiation Survivors, (a bomb test that was done on Bikini Atoll of the Marshall Islands), and a life member of the Association of Atomic Veterans.

Sterling is survived by his wife Patricia and four sons; Sterling A. Wells of Tacoma, Lawrence D. Wells of Fallon, Nev., Leslie A. Wells of Oak Harbor and Marcus W. Wells of Leavenworth, and one daughter Shellie A. Wells of Las Vegas, Nev. Eleven grandchildren and two great-granddaughters also survive.

A private family graveside at Maple Leaf Cemetery will be held. Arrangements are entrusted to Burley Funeral Chapel.