Navy Cmdr. Fred Harrison Gage Jr., retired, born in Pensacola, Fla., and most recently from Clinton, a loving husband and father, died quietly Thursday morning, May 16, 2002, with his family at his side at Harborview Medical Center, Seattle.

Mr. Gage was a Navy pilot for 20 years with a distinguished career. He retired as a commander in Naples, Italy, in 1960. He was a member of a Black Cat Squadron in the Pacific in World War II. Gage was awarded many medals for his valor, including the Distinguished Flying Cross, three Air Medals, National Service Medal and the China Service Medal. However, the love and respect of his comrades were his greatest reward.

After retirement from the Navy, he began a career as a stockbroker for Merrill Lynch, in Frankfurt, Germany. In 1974 he and his wife, Dorothy Jeanne Gage, moved to Portland, Ore., and settled in the Seattle area in 1980. In his second career, he created strong relationships with colleagues and clients and was highly respected for his integrity and commitment.

Mr. Gage and his wife attracted many dear friends throughout their lives together and kept in contact with many of them through their travels and by welcoming many into their home.

He is remembered for his love of family and his deep interest in history. He was always willing to engage in an active discussion on any of the many topics on which he kept current.

Mr. Gage is survived by his loving wife, Dorothy Jeanne Gage; two daughters, Suzanne Gage Brainard and Kathleen Gage Damm, her husband Larry and sons Jesse and Seth; and a son, Fred H. Gage III, his wife Mary Lynn and their daughters, Francesca and Alexandra.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to South Whidbey Intermediate School, P.O. Box 308, Langley, WA 98260.