Willard Leroy Aldrich

Willard L. Aldrich, 96, of Port Hadlock, passed away on June 16, 2021 at home with his family surrounding him. Willard was born on May 22, 1925 to Forrest and Louise Aldrich in Seattle, Washington. The family moved to Port Townsend in 1929. After graduating from Port Townsend High School in 1943, he enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II. His basic training was at the Point Hudson Coast Guard station near his family home at Chetzemoka Park. After serving his country and completing his tour of duty, he went on to study for the ministry at Simpsons Bible College in St. Paul, Minnesota. After graduation, he was called to his first pastorship with the Christian Missionary Alliance in Granite Falls, Washington in 1949. He also pastored in Bly, Oregon in 1951 and Dever-Conner, Oregon in 1955. After 14 years in the ministry, he decided to further his education at the Oregon College of Education in Monmouth, Oregon where he earned a master's degree in English and the Humanities. His first teaching job was with Central High School in Independence, Oregon. Later as department chairman, he taught English composition and literature at Umpqua Community College in Roseburg, Oregon. He retired from teaching in 1982 and he and his wife, Barbara, moved back to his home town of Port Townsend. Willard was an avid cabinet maker and woodworker. His craftsmanship was well known in the Port Townsend area. His skills and intrinsic knowledge of the craft came from his father, Forrest M. Aldrich. Over nearly 40 years, he used these skills to transform the home he shared with Barbara into a beautiful and welcoming oasis for family and friends alike. All who met Willard recognized that he was a very special man and they were enriched by knowing him. His smile could light up a room. Willard was loving, genuine, heartfelt and kind. As a lifelong learner, his intellectual curiosity took him to many realms. An avid reader, he was also an accomplished poet, delighting his family and others with poems composed for special occasions and holidays. Though he retired from the ministry, his pastoral instincts were a part of him. He performed weddings for family and friends. A true patriarch, he guided his family with love and unwavering support and counsel. He was generous, compassionate and a good listener. In a world filled with conflict, his beautiful poetry often reflected his love of life and peace. So many loved Willard; he will be sorely missed by all who had the grace and good fortune to know him. Willard was predeceased by his daughter Debbie Aldrich; his brother Daniel Aldrich; and his first wife Lois Gephart. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Barbara; his brothers, Coleman Aldrich and Forrest Aldrich (Carol); his children, Karen Best (Laury), David Aldrich (Mila), Mark Aldrich (Patty); and stepsons, Tony Cochrane (Julie) and Ethan Cochrane (Loki). Willard is also survived by 10 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. There will be a celebration of Willard’s life at 3 p.m. Sunday, June 27 at Willard and Barbara’s home at 20 West Eugene St., Port Hadlock. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Willard’s name to the Edensaw Cancer Fund or to Jefferson County Hospice.