Jack Sterling was born on Oct. 19, 1927 to John Sterling and Helen Hazelton Sterling and died on May 7, 2009. He served in the U.S. Army at the end of WWII after graduating from high school in three years. He moved to Mercer Island with his then wife, Janet Hayes Sterling, in 1953 and called it home for 24 years. He appreciated the natural beauty, and the friendships enjoyed, during his time on the Island. His later years were spent in Egypt, the Middle East and in Corvallis, Ore.

Mr. Sterling was most proud to be an Eagle Scout, registered professional engineer from Purdue, and of his low REI membership number. He would have liked to be remembered for his adventurous spirit, love of the outdoors, including mountaineering and sailing, fondness for children and animals, and his wry sense of humor. He wished everyone to make the world a better place.

Mr. Sterling is survived by his brother, Bruce (Linda) Sterling; daughter, Sally Sterling, and grandson, Michael Sterling; daughter, Nancy (Mark) McKallor, and granddaughters, Lauren and Brooke McKallor; a niece, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his brother, Kirk (Jan) Sterling.