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Local officials say that former Bellingham Police Chief John “Jack” C. Burley passed away late last week.
Burley, who retired from the position in 1976 after 25 years of service, worked as a migrant fruit picker up and down the west coast during the 1930s.
He later joined the U.S. Merchant Marines and served in Europe and the Pacific during World War II.
Those who knew him laud his contributions outside of public service as a former Ski to Sea festival parade director.
Whatcom County Sheriff Bill Elfo says that Burley was responsible for laying the foundation for many law enforcement practices in Whatcom County.
Burley is survived by his wife Vivian of nearly 64 years.
He would have been 86 next month.
