Sylvan Benjamin Mackie, age 82, passed away on Dec. 19, 2005.

Sylvan was born May 12, 1924, in Everett. He worked for the Washington State Ferries during his high school years as a seaman. He worked for New England Fish Company and other fishing companies until 1948. Sylvan then transferred to the Island County Road District until 1955, when he returned to the Washington State Ferries. Sylvan enjoyed the Clinton/Mukilteo route for 30 long glorious years before retiring to his flowers and gardens.

Sylvan also took great pride in his years he worked in the woods as a logger.

Sylvan moved to Whidbey Island in 1924, where his love of land and farming made a perfect fit.

Sylvan married Pearl (Priscilla) Farrar Oct. 16, 1948. They were the second couple to be married at the Clinton Progressive Hall.

Sylvan loved farming, hunting, fishing, hard work, and being with his family. He spent every spare minute working with the land on his five acres in Clinton. He loved using old things and making new inventions out of them. He was particularly fond of animals, including his horses and cows. He took great pride in being involved in 4H with his daughter Patricia.

Sylvan also was known for his unique personality and his love of family. He always took the time and effort to make sure his grandchildren knew where he came from and how to take care of themselves by living off the land. I never met another person who cared to teach his grandchildren and great grandchildren so much about life. My favorite story about Sylvan was when he was camping in Alaska and taught two of his grandchildren how to fish. One went to cast a line but accidentally let loose of the line too soon and caught his nose. Instead of going back to camp, Sylvan took the hook out of his bleeding nose and continued to teach them how to fish until they were ready to go.

Sylvan is survived by his wife, Pearl Mackie of Clinton; daughter Patty Hill; son-in-law Charles Hill of Kodiak, Ala.; and four grandchildren, Susan Keel and Christopher Mackie of Everett, Tricia Krug of Kodiak, and Tiffany Williamson of Clinton. Sylvan also has six great grandchildren; Madison Hill-McLaughlin, Kristopher Hill-McLaughlin and Jackson Krug of Kodiak, Taran Williamson of Clinton, and Adien and Cameron Keel of Everett.

Sylvan was preceded in death by sons Mike Mackie, James Patrick and Sylvan Allen Mackie; brother Burrell Mackie; and sister Maryland Hebert.

Sylvan will be missed by his family and friends.

A private family service will be held at a future date. Remembrances may be made to McKinley Home in Oak Harbor. Arrangements were entrusted to Burley Funeral Chapel.