Jack Chamberlin, an innovative and irascible entrepreneur who turned his love of horses into a successful hay business, died Sept. 2 at his home on Bainbridge at age 64, surrounded by loved ones. True to his spirit, he died listening to “Mama Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys,” by Waylon Jennings, with a cowboy hat at his side.

The cause of death was prostate cancer, which he bravely battled for 10 years.

Chamberlin, a rugged individualist, left the corporate world to start Lazy J, a hay broker business, in 1983. The cowboy could be easily spotted on the island delivering hay to surrounding residents.

In the 1990s, he made an unprecedented move by moving from the cowboy realm, into local politics when he ran for mayor. His campaign, “Take it back with Jack,” reflected his growing frustration with the increasing government controls that infringed upon local business. His campaign was a hit with the media for his unedited remarks that came from his heart, rather than a publicist. The campaign propelled him into second place and is fondly remembered for the stirring contrast between a fiery cowboy and an English teacher, Janet West.

In later years, he pursued his passion for golf, hiking and photography.

He is survived by Cary Chamberlin, his wife of 44 years; son Mark (Shelly) Chamberlin; daughter Lisa Chamberlin; daughter Rene (Jay) Grove; and grandchildren Amanda Chamberlin and Denali Grove. Also surviving are his mother Lela Pickens and two brothers, Wy Chamberlin and Carl Chamberlin as well as his sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of caring friends.

A potluck picnic celebration will be held at 1 p.m. Sept. 7 at the home of Wy and Janet Chamberlin, 21787 Bond Rd. in Poulsbo.

Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Kitsap County or the Bainbridge Island Volunteer Firefighters Association. An online guest book is at www.cookfamilyfuneralhome.com.