Harold E. Ransley of Coupeville passed away peacefully on Sept. 1, 2010 after a brave struggle with cancer. His final days were spent in the supportive care of Enso House in Freeland.

Harold and his wife Jean settled on Whidbey Island in 2003 from upstate New York.

They involved themselves in the many community and outdoor activities that Whidbey, and the Pacific Northwest, have to offer. Harold and Jean were members of the Coupeville United Methodist Church and volunteered with church sponsored activities. They were active in their Ledgewood neighborhood and always helpful and caring neighbors.

After Jean passed away in September 2009, Harold remained active in both the neighborhood and church until his death.

Harold was born in 1927 in Wayne County, New York. Growing up during the Great Depression and being in military service during World War II, Harold had set his sights on college. He graduated from Albany School of Pharmacy and went on to own the Rexall Pharmacy in Sodus, N.Y., where he filled prescriptions and listened to countless customer stories for more than 35 years.

In 1956, he married Jean Lyon, and together they transformed an old farmhouse into a wonderful home, raised a family, hosted many get-togethers, and were well- known and respected members of their community.

Together, Harold and Jean were active naturalists, environmentally aware and appreciative of nature’s gifts. Much of their lives were devoted to enjoying the world as seen from a canoe, a trail, a beach or from the top of a mountain — experiences often shared with their children, friends and family. They enjoyed the adventure of travel, and after retirement visited many parts of the world on Elderhostel tours.

They were devoted parents and grandparents, actively engaged in the lives of their extended family members. They hosted numerous family parties, trips and reunions, in places that included the Adirondacks, Hawaii, the Caribbean, Oregon and Florida.

Harold will be missed by many who came to know him over the years. He was a dignified gentleman in all accounts.

He is survived by his brother, Richard Ransley and wife Nancy; his daughter Keren (Ransley) LaCourse, husband Donald and sons Matthew and Benjamin; his daughter Lynda Ransley, husband Timothy Hohn and children Samuel, Bryce and Deah; his son Scott Ransley, wife Brenda and their children Ellen and Nathan, as well as a host of friends both near and far.

A memorial service is scheduled for 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 2 at the Coupeville United Methodist Church.

A memorial fund has been established in Harold’s name with Ebey’s Landing, and contributions may be sent to PO Box 774, Coupeville, WA 98239.