Glen Patrick Cawley died peacefully April 13, 2015, at his home in Buckley.

Originally from Battle Ground, Wash., he was born to Grace (Higdon) Cawley-Femling and John P. Cawley. He and siblings David, Larry and Barbara remained close through the years. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II as an aerial gunner stationed on the aircraft carrier USS Battaan. After his plane was shot down he was captured and held as a prisoner of war in both Ofuna and Omori. He was missing in action and presumed dead for months before being rescued and eventually returned home to his family. He received multiple military honors including the Purple Heart for his service.

Once home, he married his high school sweetheart, Gloria, and they raised four children. They moved the family to Buckley in 1964 and began building the South Prairie Airport. He was a skilled pilot and instructor and found joy in sharing the gift of flight with all who showed an interest. The airport has been a haven for local aviators for many years.

From restoring vintage aircraft to enjoying antique automobiles, he had a penchant for things with engines and wheels. He was always busy enjoying his family, trading stories with friends, making the next “good deal,” hunting, fishing, clamming and completing the “daily jumble” word puzzle.

Glen was preceded in death by his wife, Gloria, and sons John and James Cawley. He is survived by son Jay Cawley; daughter Jody Cawley; daughters-in-law Cheri and Carol Cawley; and a dozen grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life – for both he and his wife – is planned for Saturday, May 9, at the Cawley South Prairie Airport. There will be a casual gathering from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. with a missing man formation and formal commemoration at 11:30.

Military funeral honors, where he and his wife will be laid to rest together, will take place at Tahoma National Cemetery. Due to limited accommodations, it will be by private invitation.