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Dwight Isbell Obituary
Dwight passed away at home after a hard battle with lung cancer.
He was born to Ellston and Laura Isbell in Seattle.
In 1947, after attending Lincoln High School, he joined the Marine Corps.
While attending the University of Illinois, Dwight invented the log periodic antenna in 1958, which to this day is used by most amateur radio enthusiasts.
Most of his professional life was spent at the Boeing Company, where he worked on many different programs as technology director.
Dwight was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Lana Waite; and brothers-in-law Fred Waite and Bill Young.
He leaves behind his wife of 41 years, Maxine; and sons Stephen (Michelle) and Jeffrey Isbell. He is also survived by children Colleen Isbell (Dan Berg), Janet (Dick) Lechner, Lyle Isbell (Franey), Douglas Isbell (Mercedes) and Dawn Wilson (James), born to his first wife, Miriam. There are two surviving sisters, Dori Folsom (Riley) and Laurie Young; and numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Dwight and Maxine followed his dream of sailing the world in their 43-foot sailboat, Concordia. They spent the better part of 17 years sailing and visiting some 45 countries. After their circumnavigation, they retired to Sequim.
There will be no public services.
Many thanks go to Volunteer Hospice of Clallam County.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Dwight Isbell
Dani Isbell
September 21, 2011
Grandpa, you were always a inspiration to me. I love that you always lived your life to it's fullest and I always felt a little wiser with you around. You will be deeply, deeply missed. Much love.
Stephen Isbell
September 21, 2011
Dear Dad,
You've always been an outstanding role model for myself and many others as well. Your intelligence, insight, warmth, and humor has always made me proud to have you as my father. Your knowledge and wisdom has helped to guide me as long as I can remember. I will dearly miss our friendly conversations and our occasional debates. If anybody could make me change a strongly held opinion, it was certainly you. Your strength of character was something I have always admired and respected. I have no doubt that you have had a powerful, positive, and long lasting impact on many people. Of course, I count myself as one of those people.
Dad, you're often in my thoughts and always in my heart.
Much Love,
Steve
Michelle (Shelly) Isbell
September 21, 2011
Dwight, It was a great honor to have known you. I have always admired and respected you as an intelligent, knowledgeable and caring individual. The memories of the family dinners and movies we shared in Des Moines & Sequim will always be with me. Thank you for all the help you gave us, especially with our move to Australia. God Bless!
Jessica Isbell
September 19, 2011
Grandpa,
You got to live a life that some people only get to dream about. Sailing around the world in your speedo standing out on "Concordia" always made me laugh.....I love you & will miss you always! Please watch over grandma!
Keith Isbell
September 19, 2011
Grandpa Dwight was a kind person, and one of the most intelligent people I ever knew. I wish he could have stayed with us for much longer. I will miss him very much.
Jill Isbell
September 8, 2011
I will always cherish the memories of our family time. Thank you for all your encouragement and support. You alway brought out the best in us all. Love, Jill
September 3, 2011
My dear Dwight,
You were the love of my life. We had it all for so many years; I have memories to last forever. I will miss you always.
Maxine
Laura Mae Isbell Young
August 25, 2011
I love you big brother. I've always been so proud of you and I will miss you so much. Say Hi to Mom and Dad and Lana!
Ray & Kay Isbell
August 24, 2011
May the Lord bless all the family members in this time of sorrow.
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