Carl Taylor, 81, died in his sleep June 30, 2003.

He was a resident of Whidbey Island for more than 30 years. He was born July 23, 1921, in Fredonia, Kan., to Harry and Molly Taylor.

He was an Eagle Scout, and later became a scoutmaster. He served in World War II as a sergeant in the Army.

He was a volunteer firefighter for 16 years on Whidbey Island. He transferred from Boeing in Wichita, Kan., to the Everett Boeing facility. He was a route carrier for The South Whidbey Record, and retired as a route carrier for the Langley Post Office.

He enjoyed fishing, gardening and the company of his many children and family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Orlin Taylor; a sister, Mildred Cox; and two foster children, Joe Wright and Mike Kuehner.

He is survived by his wife, Norma Taylor, of Langley; two sons, Carl Taylor Jr. and his wife, Pam, and Harry Taylor and his fiancee, Dana Scoggins; a niece, Sharon Blacker; and three grandchildren, Lainey Taylor and McKenna and Clayton Scoggins. He is also survived by several foster children, including Donny Price, Chuck, Debbie, Pat, Norma and Renda, and their children Walter, Michelle, Chris, Christina, Blain, Robbie, Nicholas, Alexis, Jessy and Sarah.

A wake will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday at the Taylor residence, 2696 Wells Road, Langley.

Memorials may be made to Good Cheer in Langley.

To the cowboy in him, happy trails to you. We love and miss you. A private family service will be held.