Gordon M. Carver, age 81, passed away peacefully Friday morning, Nov. 6, 2009, in the comfort of his Doe Bay home. Much the same way that he lived, he died quietly, after a brief illness surrounded by the family he loved.

Gordon was born in Yakima, Wash. on March 14, 1928 to parents Frank and Inez Carver. After being raised in both Yakima and Seattle, ever the adventurous spirit, he joined the Merchant Marines at age 14, after claiming to actually be 16 years old. After a few years of service he enlisted in the Air Force and traveled the world “twice,” as he liked to say.

In his teen years he met his future wife, Patricia. The two became the best of friends but their lives went in different directions and they would not re-connect and marry until April 7, 1955.

In their later years, (encouraged by their daughter Sami) Gordon and Patricia relocated to Orcas Island. They became very involved with their grandchildren’s lives and liked visiting with friends and neighbors.

Gordon became a mainstay at the “Exchange” and got to know people in the community, sharing his pearls of wisdom and kindness, greeting and helping people find treasures while working there a couple days a week.

He was a very creative and engaging man with a unique sense of humor. Gordy enjoyed various mediums as an outlet for his artistic expressions. Anything from beading to glass etching, to creating stone statues. All kinds of art captured his imagination.

Gordon and Pat would open the doors of their home to many over the years. so many were touched by the loving healing ways of these two people as they were welcomed into the fold.

Gordon was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 48 years and best friend, Patricia Ann Carver, whose passing was in November of 2003. Together they raised five children: son, Mark McDaniel and wife Neva; daughter Cheryl Bowen; son Don carver; daughter Sami Messinger and husband John; daughter Chanda McKeaver. He is also survived by nine grandchildren: Sandi, Krista, Jaxqueline, Vanessa, Chuck, Jessica, Kyle, Alison, Gabriele, and by three great-grandchildren: Sean, Nicholas and Morgan.

Gordon was a loving father and leaves a huge void in the hearts of his children. We will miss him daily.

A gathering for his friends and family will be at the Olga Store from 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 15.

Submitted by Gordon Carver’s family.