Jack Chamberlin

an innovative and irascible, entrepreneur who turned his love of horses into a successful hay business, died Tuesday at his home surrounded by his loved ones on Bainbridge Island. True to his spirit, he died listening to "Mama Don't Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys," by Waylon Jennings and a cowboy hat next to his side.He was 64 years old. 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 1990's, he took an unprecedented move, by moving from cowboy, 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.Jack Chamberlin is survived by Cary Chamberlin, his wife of 44 years. Also surviving is his son Mark Chamberlin and daughter in law Shelly; his daughter Lisa Chamberlin; daughter Rene Grove and son-in- law Jay Grove; his grandchildren Amanda Chamberlin and Denali Grove. Also surviving are his mother Lela Pickens and two brothers Wy Chamberlin and Carl Chamberlin. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of caring friends. Family and Friends are welcome to gather on Sunday, September 7th at 1:00 p.m. for a potluck picnic celebrating Jack Chamberlin's life. This celebration will be held at the home of Wy and Janet Chamberlin. The address is 21787 Bond Road Poulsbo, WA 98370. For further information, please call (206) 842-4038.Those wishing may remember Jack Chamberlin through memorial donations to Hospice of Kitsap County or the Bainbridge Island Volunteer Firefighters Association.