Robert “Scratch” Higdon died in his sleep at Jefferson Healthcare hospital on Nov. 24, 2021, due to complications of Alzheimer’s disease.
He was born to Edwin and Marguerite Martin Higdon on May 13, 1937, in Port Gamble, Washington. He graduated from Port Townsend High School in 1957 and joined the Army in 1958.
He married Janet Gillett Imislund in 1961.
He worked for the private ferry Olympic Ferries in Port Townsend and retired as Chief Mate for Washington State Ferries. He later transported Puget Sound Pilots out of Port Angeles Pilot Station.
He was a life member of Elks Lodge No. 317 and Elk of the Year in 1970.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters Jackie Gillett and Marguerite Bishop; and brothers Edwin “Itch” Higdon and Michael Fernandes.
He is survived by his wife Janet of 60 years; and daughters Dana Kern (Bellingham), Anne Lawson (Port Ludlow); and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews..
Family services will be at a later date. His ashes will be scattered from the ferry on the Port Townsend-Coupeville route.
Remembrances may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at PO Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011; Port Townsend Alumni Association; or charity of your choice.
