Stuart Merton Corey, 72, went to be with his Lord on March 26, 2006. Two and one-half years ago, Stuart suffered a tragic accident, which left him a quadriplegic. In spite of his injuries and his attachment to a ventilator, his spirits and his faith remained high.

Stuart was born April 20, 1933 in Tacoma, to Harold M. and Vera L. (Wonderly) Corey. He was raised in Ellensburg, Wash., where he graduated from Ellensburg High School. His family had a love of flying and Stuart obtained his pilot’s license before he received his driver’s license. He also owned his own plane before he owned a car. Following high school, he attended Central Washington University, obtaining his Associate in Arts degree.

Stuart enlisted in the U.S. Navy, signing on as an enlisted member. He was screened and accepted to Officer Candidate School (OCS) and received his Bachelor of Science degree from the United States Naval Postgraduate School. He was commissioned as an ensign and received his wings as a Naval Aviator. His Navy career took him to California, Texas, Spain, Hawaii and to Whidbey Island. While stationed on the East Coast, he married Laraine Ober in Atlantic City on May 1, 1956.

Stuart flew many military aircraft, including the A3D, PBY, A-4, A-7 and the A-6. He was a veteran of the Korean and Vietnam wars. Stuart was tasked with dropping the first bombs over North Vietnam. One of the highest points of his career was serving as Air Boss aboard a carrier of the Pacific Fleet.

Stuart served his final tour of duty aboard NAS Whidbey Island. He arrived as a Commander, serving as Comptroller, Executive Officer and then promoted to Captain. He retired after 28 years of active duty.

Stuart purchased E&E Oil Company in Coupeville and opened Corey Oil. His success in the Navy carried over into business and the company grew. Following his accident, he turned the business over to his family, continuing his legacy.

In 1979, he and Laraine founded Island Ministries, a non-denominational, non-profit organization designed to reach out to the local communities through counseling and assistance in areas where needed.

Stuart was ordained as a minister in 1984, by his Uncle Arthur Corey. He served as guest pastor in many churches, spoke at Christian retreats, married and buried people and served at numerous military events. At the time of his death, he was planning a 50th anniversary for one of Whidbey’s original squadrons.

Stuart enjoyed a lifetime of flying. His personal aircraft included a Mooney, a couple of Lake Amphibians and several Cessnas. Along with a lifetime passion for flying, Stuart enjoyed playing tennis. He also enjoyed playing racquetball, fishing, traveling and speaking to groups. His favorite sermon was short and to the point: “God is good, God is good, God is good!”

Stuart is survived by his wife Laraine at the family home, Coupeville; by three children, Nathan Corey, Rebecca “Becky” Klieman and Mary Beth Eaton and husband John, all of Oak Harbor. He is survived by one sister, Phyllis King and husband Tracy of Rainier, Ore.; brother Roger Corey and wife Diana of Brush Prairie, Wash.; and one sister-in-law Ann Corey, of Seattle. Nine grandchildren also survive. His parents and one brother Richard Corey preceded him in death.

Memorial services for Stuart Corey will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 8, at the First Reformed Church, 250 S.E. 3rd Avenue, Oak Harbor. Full military honors will follow under the auspices of NAS Whidbey Island Honor Guard. Cremation was held with the U.S. Navy conducting burial at sea at a later date. Arrangements are entrusted to Burley Funeral Chapel, Oak Harbor.