John H. Farrens Jr., 85, of Clinton, died July 6, 2003, at his home.

He was born Dec. 31, 1917, in Huntley, Mont. He graduated as an architectural engineer from the University of Michigan, where he met his wife, Frieda Marie Scheffler. They were married in September 1939 at her brother’s home in Richmond, Ind.

He served in the Navy during World War II as an officer in special forces. He was a member of an underwater demolition team, now known as Seals. He participated in six landings, including two at Okinawa, Japan. He was awarded a Silver Star and other recognitions.

After the war, he moved to Baton Rouge, La., where he opened his own architectural firm. In 1966 he relocated to Fairbanks, Alaska, and in 1967 moved to Edmonds. He was a resident of Edmonds until building his retirement home on Whidbey Island in 1991.

He is survived by his wife; two daughters; a son; eight grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Interment will be at Arlington National Cemetery. No services are planned.