William A. Mack, often called “Bill” or “Slim,” died on March 2, 2009.

Bill was born on March 19, 1922 in Seattle. He attended St. Anne’s and then O’Dea High School. World War II interrupted his career at the Coon Chicken Inn and led him to join the Merchant Marines with two of his childhood friends.

Returning from the war, he married his sweetheart, MaryLou Larsen. Together they had four children, Penny (Vederoff), Cynthia (Ernsdorff), William and Lawrence. Along the way they parented numerous other children who came to them through their extended family and the foster care system. As their children grew up, they enlarged the family to include many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

When Bill neared retirement, they moved their family home to Whidbey Island, where they had gone every summer.

Bill loved to fish, even though he never caught as many fish as his wife. He enjoyed watching the ships go by. He taught each of his children and grandchildren how to maneuver a boat, to row, (often out of necessity because his motors continually quit) and how to fish. He instructed them never to spit into the wind. His love of boating was never dampened by his inability to swim.

Bill remained in love with his wife to the end, seeing her exactly the same as the engagement photo he always carried in his wallet. He was a loving and gentle husband and father who is remembered for his long sea stories, his corny jokes and his effective use, and often reuse, of grocery coupons. He enjoyed bowling and those “All-You-Can-Eat Buffets” where he could spend an entire day. Bill was always ready to help a neighbor. He never did get his shop cleaned up.

To the end, he loved and adored his family, delighting in its variety. He regaled them with the stories of his youth. He questioned them about their opinions and listened closely as they spoke about their education and jobs. He was proud of each of them, regardless of abilities or disabilities. He encouraged us always to do our best. All of us know how to laugh about anything because of his example.

Bill leaves behind a loving wife, four children and an extended family as well as many friends. We will miss him deeply. We all became better people because of his patience, quiet guidance and encouragement.

Services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, March 29 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Freeland. A reception will follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to Senior Services of South Whidbey Island or to Trinity Lutheran Church of Freeland.