The island lost a formidable character with the passing of Howard Vange, 90, on Oct. 28, 2009.

Born in Tacoma in 1919 and raised on a farm in Montana by Norwegian immigrant parents, he exemplified the generation in which dreams were possible and hard work rewarded.

He graduated from a one-room schoolhouse at the age of 14, and continued his education at Montana State and the General Motors Institute, finishing his studies with a business and engineering degree from MIT.

His early career was interrupted by service in the Army that included 19 months of combat duty in the Pacific Theater, where he served as a major and was later named as assistant G-4 of the 96th Division. The Bronze Star is one of the many ribbons and awards he earned. He also served during the Korean War.

Following the war and an associate position with Booz Allen Hamilton management consultants, Vange was hired by General Motor’s Opel division to oversee the plant operations and start-up of its German facilities. This was the beginning of an illustrious and international career that spanned the rest of his entire work life.

Recognized internally for his talent in managing complicated situations, he became GM’s global point person for politically unstable countries and joint ventures. He held senior level international positions that involved kidnapping threats in Argentina, marshal law in Korea, factory strikes in France, a revolution in Iran, the opening of the world’s largest car manufacturing facility in Spain and the start-up of GM’s interest in Russia — all part of an international management career as an ex-pat that kept him and his family living outside of the United States for almost 25 years.

In 1981, Howard and his wife Barbara retired to Whidbey Island, which they believed to be one of the most beautiful places on the planet.

Never quite as busy or as exciting as his international postings, he nonetheless found it the place to call “home,” actively investing in Freeland real estate, serving as a Whidbey General Hospital commissioner and joining several clubs, including the South Whidbey Rotary Club.

Known for his sharp brain, dry sense of humor and a keen interest in keeping people on their toes, Howard made an impact on each person who had the chance to know him.

While his death is sad, he managed to lead a fascinating life for 90 years, for which his family is grateful, and passed away only six months following the loss of his best friend and partner, Barbara.

He is survived by two daughters, Coral Scranton of Santa Fe, N.M. and Kim Boestam of Stockholm, Sweden; and two sons, Darrell of Seattle and Harlan (Kelly) of Philadelphia, Penn.

He also has six grandchildren who lovingly called him Pop Daddy.

An intensely unpretentious person, Howard requested that there be no funeral service or memorial gathering.

He firmly believed that one should express sentiments (good or bad) while still alive so his family is remembering him privately and drawing memories from the rich and textured tapestry that was his life.

Friends wanting to contact the family are encouraged to do so at thevanges@gmail.com.