Stanley Charles Stumbo

Stanley Charles “Stan” Stumbo, 87, passed away on August 18, 2026, in Corvallis, Oregon. Born on September 13, 1938, Stan lived a life marked by service, craftsmanship, and commitment to community and family.

A 1960 graduate of the United States Naval Academy, Stan served twenty years with distinction as a naval officer, completing multiple shipboard assignments including tours aboard the USS Basilone and the USS Ticonderoga. He continued his naval career in engineering and shipyard management, ultimately holding senior leadership roles at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard. His work contributed to major modernization efforts and the advancement of naval maintenance and engineering practices over several decades.

After retiring from federal service, Stan continued his professional career in the private sector as an engineer with Nickum & Spalding and a consultant, known for his technical expertise, steady leadership, and ability to solve complex mechanical problems. Stan’s second-to-last professional endeavor, and one he was very proud of, was leading the design of the Jumbo Mark II Class Ferries as the Chief Naval Architect of the Washington State Ferry System. He retired and became a Wake Wash specialist and consultant with Ken Fox.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Stan was a lifelong craftsman who found joy in metal machine shop work. He formed a volunteer group and helped restored historical artifacts for the Smithsonian Institute including a hydrofoil, steam engines, patent models and full-size items. He was also an avid sailor and boater, spending many years navigating the waters of Puget Sound, San Juan Islands and the Gulf Islands. He was also a gymnast and retained a trampoline in his backyard until he was 70 years old and still able to do a backflip.

In addition to machining, Stan loved to sing and play (guitar and banjo) 50's, 60's and 70's folk music. He played around the campfire while camping, on the docks while boating, and at Bainbridge Senior Center and in Madison House and West Hills.

Stan was a long-time resident of Port Madison and volunteered on the water board. He volunteered with Habitat for Humanity in Kitsap County and played a foundational role in establishing the Bainbridge Arts & Resources Network (BARN), helping create a space where makers, artists, and craftspeople could learn, collaborate, and build.

Stan was preceded in death by his wife, Miriam “Bunny” Burger Stumbo; his daughter, Cheryl Ann Stumbo; his grandson, Tyler Charles Burkum; and his longtime companion, Chris Robinson.

He is survived by his daughter, Lauren Stumbo Burkum; his granddaughter, Kelsey Zephyr; his brother, Steve Stumbo; and his sister, Jeanie Stumbo Zaimes.

A memorial for both Chris and Stan is being planned on Bainbridge for sometime in October.