Wallace Rowe Erwin, born Sept. 18, 1921, in Cavalier, N.D., died in his home on Orcas Island June 29, 2006.

He graduated from the University of California at Berkeley masters program in bio-chemistry. At the Lawrence Lab Berkeley, he and his two partners ran the Tritium Lab for 25 years until his retirement to Orcas island in 1986.

Wally married Trudy in 1977, and she introduced him to Orcas Island. He fell in love! Wally and Trudy made their home at West Beach, where their “real” job began. Wally helped Trudy with all phases of pottery making and maintaining their property. They traveled around the country by small plane and car, enjoying a busy retirement with family and their many friends.

Wally was one of those guys who could fix anything, from machinery to boats, electrical, and motorcycles. He willingly helped out his family and neighbors with their many projects over the years. He was also an animal lover and was especially gifted with dogs. He loved and adored his many dogs and cats . He did a lot of volunteer work, including the Orcas Fly-in, Senior Center, and Library Fair.

He is survived by his wife, Trudy Erwin; his son Michael Erwin; granddaughter, D’Anitra Smith; great grandson, Andrew; step-daughter Dianna Down and her husband, Bob; grandson Cody Down and his wife Liz; grandson Noah Down; step-daughter Syd Exton; grandson Aaron Hardy and his wife Kris; great grandchildren Tatum, Finn and Lily Hardy; grandson Matthew Haeuser; and granddaughter Kimberly Hardy.

A memorial service and pot-luck will be held at The Right Place at 5:30 p.m. July 22.

Donations in Wally’s name can be made to Lahari Home, Deer Harbor, or Hospice Home Health Care.