Michael Conrad Standinger passed into the arms of the Lord at 3:08 a.m. Saturday, July 7, 2007 at home on Whidbey surrounded by family. His passing was a peaceful end after a long illness.

Michael was born in York, Maine on July 18, 1943 to Conrad and Helen Standinger. He was an only child who suffered through his father’s wartime injury and paraplegia, and the tragic loss of his mother in a traffic accident.

A good student, Michael earned his master’s degree in business from Memphis State University, and pursued a successful career in insurance and real estate development. He loved his life on Whidbey Island and treasured his time on the water crabbing and fishing.

Michael was blessed with an adoring wife of more than 25 years. He married Linda King on Dec. 13, 1975. King brought a beautiful daughter Robin Grisham to the marriage giving Standinger his immediate role as a doting father.

In 1984, a son, Conrad, was born and added a new energy to a growing family. 1989 brought a grandson, Justin, to the family and Michael’s life was blessed again.

During his life Michael dedicated more than 20 years to a membership in Whidbey’s chapter of the American Legion, presiding and participating in many of the legion’s functions. He held an acute interest in world affairs and believed deeply in the goodness of man.

He is survived by his wife and family as named above and will be sorely missed by the friends he has made.

A memorial service will be held at 4:30 p.m. Friday, July 13 at the American Legion Post No. 141.