John Hilton Earley was 33 when he disappeared after the 34-foot fishing vessel K-Joe sank in Marmot Bay off Pillar Cape near Kodiak Island on January 14, 1985. He was wearing a cold-water survival suit when last seen on the boat. Two other people aboard were rescued on January 16, two days after the sinking; no sign of Earley was ever found.

The Alaska State Troopers investigated his disappearance but strong currents and the vast search area prevented recovery of evidence or a body. He is presumed lost at sea, and the lack of physical remains has left his fate unresolved.

If anyone knew John Earley, served with him, or has information about the K-Joe or Marmot Bay around January 1985, please share what might help clarify what happened.