Arthur Lee Hart

Art is survived by his wife, Sarah; his cherished daughter, Ava Lorraine, who was the pride of his life and the center of his world; and his three beloved stepchildren, Alder (Alex), Emma, and Cameron, whom he cared for deeply. He is also survived by his parents, George and Jo Ann Hart; his sister, Georgia Ann (Jason); nephew Kinsey (Alexis); niece Katie; and a large circle of extended family and close friends who loved him dearly.

Art’s respected service at the Trident Repair Facility (TRFB) began on June 26, 1989. Art spent his entire career at Bangor Submarine Base. He started shortly after graduating from Olympic high school; derailing a planned road trip down the West Coast. Art remained dedicated to his work throughout his life. His loyalty, strong work ethic, and quiet sense of responsibility shaped not only his career, but also the way he cared for those around him. He started in the student trainee program, rotating through different shops before finding his professional home in the 31F hydraulic shop. Over the years, Art became a cornerstone of the shop—patiently mentoring and training countless sailors and junior mechanics. His expertise in hydraulic systems was unmatched, and he became the go-to expert not only for the 726 class but also for 688s, 774s, and CVNs. His skill and reputation for excellence often brought him to assist with hydraulic work at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, and his unwavering dedication helped establish Shop 31F as one of the finest inside hydraulic shops in the Navy.

On October 9, 2011, Art transitioned to the planning office, where he quickly became the office’s hydraulic systems expert, continuing to guide and support junior planners. Coming from a military family, he was immensely proud to work at TRFB and serve his country in any way he could.

Beyond work, Art embraced life’s adventures with enthusiasm. Among his favorite places was Norway, where he found peace and inspiration in its landscapes and maintained close friendships throughout the years. Proud of his Nordic heritage, he often dreamed of a peaceful retirement and spent time looking at homes with acreage with Sarah, imagining the quiet country life they hoped to share.

In his younger years, Art embraced his love for contact sports and played rugby for the Kitsap Renegades, continuing to support and follow the team after he stopped playing. He was a proud owner of over 20 rugby jerseys from tournaments he played in and ones gifted to him from other rugby players around the world. In later years, he enjoyed golf and fishing whenever he had the chance. He had a deep love for classic vehicles, including his 1965 Rambler station wagon, affectionately named Lady Blue, and he was in the process of restoring a vintage 1971 Volkswagen Bus—an adventure he and Sarah were planning for retirement.

At home, Art was often at the grill and known in the family not only for his famous peach cake that he called Peche Kuchin but also for making the best lasagna and cheesecake around—dishes that became staples at family gatherings and requested often.

Above all, Art was proudest to be a father. His love for Ava was immeasurable. He treasured every moment they shared—from her graduation to her first flight lessons—and delighted in teaching her to drive in his old truck. One of his fondest memories was gifting her a car with a big bow to celebrate her graduation this past summer. He also held deep affection for his stepchildren, Alder (Alex), Emma, and Cameron, supporting them, encouraging them, and welcoming them into his heart and life with pride and warmth.

Art will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his generosity, humor, expertise, and the quiet strength he brought to everyone around him. Our hearts break that we lost him so soon.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date, with details to be shared with friends and family.