Wilburn Gordon Blythe

Wilburn Gordon Blythe, beloved husband, father, and friend, died Aug. 27 following a prolonged illness. He was 80 years old.

Wilburn was known as “Buck” since his birth doctor called him “a real buckaroo.”

Buck is survived by his dear wife and constant companion, Mary; his four siblings, Andrea and Bonnie who live with them, and Becky and Nick who live in Idaho; his seven children and stepson, Rowen, Shauna, Sherri, Shannon, Stefanie, Skylar, Stuart, and Nicodemus, and many grand and great-grandchildren; and Miss Chris, who has been an integral part of the family for decades.

After high school, Buck worked three years on his uncle’s egg ranch in Virginia, then joined the U.S. Navy and made two tours to Vietnam aboard the aircraft carrier U.S.S. Ranger. He was extremely proud to be a veteran.

Buck married his first wife, Eva Lewis, after leaving the Navy, and they moved to Arizona. Their hearts were so big, they had four daughters, fostered 27 babies, and adopted three children. In 1987, they moved to Washington. After 41 years of marriage to Eva, she passed away, and four years later he married Mary Ware. They celebrated their 15th anniversary in March.

Buck was a master plumber and owned Buckhorn Plumbing for many years. He later became the plumbing pro at the Port Orchard Lowes for seven years, readily sharing his expert plumbing and construction advice.

Always kind, skilled, and generous with his help, Buck tried to keep a good humor even during difficult times. A true family man, Buck is loved and missed by his whole family, neighbors, and many friends.

A celebration of life is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 25, at The Float, 14511 Sherman Drive NW in Gig Harbor. All are encouraged to wear their best Hawaiian shirts and listen to a live acoustic tribute starting at 7 p.m., with “Buckaroke” beginning at 8:30 p.m.