Donald R. McArthur

Donald R. McArthur passed away Oct. 29, 2014, in Providence Hospital. He was surrounded in love by most of his family.

Sailing, his passion, brought Don in retirement to Whidbey Island almost 12 years ago. Due to that passion, he was a founding member of the South Whidbey Yacht Club and the newly formed SWYC Youth Sailing Association. Many youth and adults learned to sail on Lone Lake with Don, his ever-present smile and unending knowledge. His love of the water and wooden boats ensured that he would be a member in good standing of the Wooden Boat Foundation in Port Townsend and an annual volunteer during the Wooden Boat Festival.

His love of community brought him to serve for a few years with Whidbey Children’s Theater, many years working endlessly for the Island County Fair and deeply involved in the life of Whidbey Island and in the waters that surround her.

He is survived by his wife, Emily, their six children, 11 grandchildren and one great-grandchild on the way.

His origin was in the Boston area, and he is survived there by his brother, sister and multiple nephews and nieces.

A celebration of life was held 3-5 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 12, at the Holmes Harbor Rod & Gun Club.

Donations may be made in his honor to SWYC Youth Sailing Association (a 501 (C) 3 at P.O. Box 316, Greenbank, WA 98253.