John Joseph Engelbrecht, age 53

      John Joseph Engelbrecht of Bainbridge Island, WA passed away on June 12 at home after a battle with cancer.

      Born Oct 4, 1958 in Biloxi, MS JJ grew up and lived in NJ before moving to Seattle in 1992 and then to Bainbridge Island in 1999.       He graduated from Christian Brothers Academy, Lincroft, NJ in 1976; graduated MEBA / Calhoon Marine Engineering School Baltimore, MD in 1983.

      He was employed as a marine engineer by Moran Tugs of NY, Royal Seafoods of Seattle, Washington State Ferries, and various shipping lines contracted with MEBA.

      He was an avid cyclist, skier, and all around outdoorsman. He had a quick wit, and infections laugh and was always the life of the party.

      He is survived by his wife Ilze,; daughter Shannon; brother Henry of CA; sisters Sue Watson, Barbara Hammond and Jane Havard, all of NJ.

      A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held in NJ this summer. In lieu of flowers donations may be sent to the John Engelbrecht Donation Fund at the Kitsap Credit Union.