Ervin R McGuire

Ervin R. McGuire "Mickey" returned to his Father in Heaven February 24, 2015, at the age of 92, in Bremerton, Washington, at Harrison Hospital. He was born June 20, 1922, in Bryce, Arizona, the son of Thomas and Lily (Roseberry) McGuire. His family moved from Arizona to Springfield, Oregon, and in 1940 he graduated from Springfield High School. He joined the U.S. Navy immediately thereafter because he knew the draft was coming and "I didn't want to mud it across Europe". Many harrowing experiences during World War II and the Korean War resulted in Mickey receiving the Purple Heart while he was aboard the destroyer USS Lang. He also served aboard the USS Haggard during the war. After 20 plus years of military service, Mickey retired from the U.S. Navy in 1961 as an E8, Senior Chief Torpedoman. He retired a second time after working 25 years in civil service at Keyport and Bangor.

In 1943, Mickey married Luella Smith, and they had four sons: James (who died as an infant), Thomas (Nancy), Richard (Earlene), and Robert (Melodie, deceased).

When Mickey married Della on June 26, 1968, he gained two daughters - Jean (Thomas) Weilert, and Judy (Jim) Cline - and two additional sons - Steve (Marilyn) Martinson and Brad (Theresa) Martinson. The family lived on their "farm" raising cattle, making wonderful memories and creating annual family traditions that continue today, including Memorial Day gatherings at Pacific Beach, a Labor Day camping trip to Dosewallips, a family reunion every July, and a Christmas Eve celebration every year at the farm. Mickey and Della had the opportunity to visit Germany and several other countries when Brad was stationed there, and they loved traveling cross-country in their motorhome.

Any member of Mickey's family could tell you about the things he loved - like cookies, and mints, and ice cream bars. And whenever he was asked what he wanted to eat, his answer was "cauliflower and wild onions" - and everyone was also pretty certain he had never actually eaten that combination - not even once. He loved fishing and spending time with his family and friends - he especially loved being with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and served in several bishoprics and as a member of the High Counsel. He spent many hours serving on committees involved in the construction of various church buildings.

He is survived by his wife Della, his sons and daughters and their families, which includes 27 grandchildren and 49 great grandchildren, with two additional great grandchildren due this year.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Smile Train or a charity of your choice.