Harold Eugene Hughes, age 64, peacefully left this earth on Feb. 8, 2007, after a courageous two year battle with cancer.

He was born Aug. 6, 1942 in Hamilton, Mont., to Avery and Zada Hughes. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Bill, Bud, and Donald and sisters Dorothy and Marilyn. He is survived by his daughter Barbara; son Charles; granddaughter Michelle Rodgers; grandson D.J. Rodgers; a great-grandson; sister-in-laws Cheryl Hughes and Dora Hughes; and his friend and Soul mate Betty LeFort.

Harold was a successful framing contractor in Yakima, King and Snohomish counties for many years.

Harold arrived on Whidbey Island to work “a couple of weeks” for a friend and local building contractor 12 years ago. He went back to Montana, “picked up the rest of his tools,” and returned to make his home on Whidbey Island.

Harold had an exciting and colorful life with many challenges and experiences. He fished, hunted and panned gold in the Montana mountains. He fished many Washington rivers, Puget Sound, the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez, thinking that he was the best fisherman from Washington to the Baja Peninsula.

He was multi-talented and a master carpenter. He could build anything and fix anything. He loved helping others when they were in need. He enjoyed socializing and telling stories whether it was at the beach or at one of his favorite “watering holes.” He also loved to watch the Huskies, Mariners and the Seahawks.

At Harold’s request there will be no funeral service. There will be a graveside memorial service in the spring when Harold is laid to rest in Hamilton, Mont.

In lieu of flowers a memorial contribution may be given to Sylvia’s Adult Home, PO Box 1562, Coupeville, Washington 98239, or a charity of your choice.