Billy Gene ‘Bill’ Fittro

Bill Fittro, 77, Clinton, died Sept. 11, 2003, in Everett.

He was born Nov. 18, 1925, in Kearney, Neb. He graduated from high school there and enlisted in the Navy in 1942 at age 17. He served on the USN San Juan in the Pacific during World War II. He was wounded in action but returned to complete his service with his shipmates.

After the war he returned to Nebraska and took pre-med courses at the University of Nebraska. But his love of the sea drew him back to the West Coast and into maritime service. He earned master’s papers and for more than 30 years was a pilot for Washington State Ferries. He was the first instructional pilot for the Super-class ferries.

In 1959 he married the love of his life, Dorothy Jackson of Clinton.

He is survived by his wife; a son and daughter-in-law, Robert and Terry Fittro of Snohomish; two daughters, Caral Fittro of Lynnwood and Terri Fittro of Clinton; a brother and sister-in-law, Don and Ann Mayfield of Kearney, Neb.; nieces Larie, Diana, Donna and Debbie; many great-nieces and great-nephews; two children from a previous marriage, Linda Brayton of Spokane and Bill Brayton in British Columbia; and four grandchildren.

The family would like to thank the compassionate nursing staffs at Whidbey General Hospital, Bethany at Providence in Everett, General Hospital in Everett and Forest View Transitional Center.

Friends and family are invited to share memories at a potluck memorial from 2 to 7 p.m. Sept. 25 at Holmes Harbor Rod and Gun Club, 3334 Brooks Hill Road.