Gene Sears

Gene L. Sears, age 79, died at home on Whidbey Island on Friday, July 17, 2009 following a short illness.

Gene was born on April 16, 1930 in Portland, Ore. to the late Fay and Florence Sears. He attended Dunaway Grade School and Washington High School in Portland and graduated in 1948. Gene graduated from the University of Portland on June 1, 1952.

On July 26, 1952, he was united in marriage to Bonnie L. Gobler in Portland.

In 1952, Gene and Bonnie moved to Seattle and he began working for the Bon Marché department store and remained with that corporation until he retired in May 1991. During his Bon Marché years, Gene was a toy buyer, furniture buyer, divisional merchandise manager and vice president of the home division.

After retirement, Gene and Bonnie moved to Whidbey Island to a home they have owned for many years.

Gene was a dedicated commissioner of the Port of South Whidbey since 1995 and was responsible for many improvements to the lifestyle of South Whidbey residents.

Gene is survived by his wife Bonnie, his son Steve, his daughter Vicki Faretta, his daughter Patti and her husband Jim Clanton, and his brothers Tom and Dick of Portland, Ore. His son Gary preceded him in death.

Private graveside services were held on Wednesday, July 22 at the Langley Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Senior Services of South Whidbey Island, 14594 SR 525, Langley, WA 98260.

Friends and family may read and sign an online guestbook and obituary at