West Seattle, Washington
25 Friday
When we published the remembrance for Rev. Dr. Stephen Ross two months ago, plans were not yet finalized for his Celebration of Life. Now they are:
A service celebrating the life of Rev. Dr. Stephen E. Ross will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at 1 pm (PDT) at Saltwater Unitarian Universalist Church in Des Moines, Washington, and via Zoom for those who are unable to join in person. All who loved him or his family are welcome and encouraged to attend. The physical address and link to the live-stream can be found at saltwaterchurch.org/celebration-of-life-stephen-e-ross
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)
Family and friends are remembering Bill Van Cleave, and sharing this remembrance with his communities:
William “Bill” Wallace Van Cleave Jr. passed away peacefully on Friday, July 11, 2025, surrounded by his beloved wife of 58 years, Pauline “Patty” T. Van Cleave, his daughter Kimberly Van Cleave Michaels, and son-in-law Robert Michaels.
Born in St. Louis, Missouri, to the late William Wallace Van Cleave Sr. and Catherine Streiff Van Cleave, Bill grew up in Webster Groves, cheering on the Cardinals with his younger siblings, Lynn Van Cleave Martin and Peter Van Cleave. Bill was proud to be an Eagle Scout as a young man and graduated from Webster Groves High School. After high school, he enlisted in the Army Reserves and was stationed at Ft. Leonard Wood. Bill painted houses to put himself through Drury College and went on to follow his father’s career path in the insurance industry. After graduation, Bill headed to Hartford, Connecticut, where he met his future wife, Patty, the first month after his arrival! He then began a long and successful career at The Travelers Insurance Company in Downtown Hartford. A few years later, the couple welcomed their daughter, Kim.
Bill enjoyed life’s little routines — especially riding the bus into Hartford with Governor Ella Grasso — and found joy in simple pleasures like wearing a nice suit, walking his dogs, and pedaling his bike around Old Saybrook. A true artist at heart, he was known for his lightning-fast portraits and capturing a pastoral scene or a favorite pet.
With a kind heart and steady mind, Bill was a man of strong traditions and stronger handshakes. A devoted member of Grace Episcopal Church, he lent his voice to the choir and spent more than 25 years as a lay reader, visiting nursing homes in Newington, CT. Bill joined the Masons of Newington Sequin-Level Lodge 140 and enjoyed that brotherhood. He was also a passionate, and thorough, genealogist and founder of the Van Cleave family website.
Bill had a gift for working with his hands — whether it was building a breakfast nook, fixing a fence, or crafting an antique-inspired wooden canopy bed. Every nail and brushstroke came with precision and pride. In 2010, he and Patty became residents of Seattle to be near their two grandsons, Burke and Shepard Michaels. He cherished every moment being with them and watching them grow. While in Seattle, he joined the Masons there and became a Worshipful Master for Alki Lodge 152.
Bill’s life will be celebrated this summer on both coasts with intimate family gatherings, featuring his artwork. He will be laid to rest in Fairview Cemetery in West Hartford, Connecticut. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Labs4rescue.com — a nod to Bill’s deep love of his dogs.
Please share memories and photos on the guestbook at emmickfunerals.com/obituaries/william-van-cleave-jr
Arrangements Entrusted to Emmick Family Funeral Home of West Seattle
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)
Earlier this year, in the remembrance for Laura May Bruco, friends promised an announcement when her Celebration of Life details were set. Now they are:
Friends (and pets of friends) are invited to celebrate the life of Laura May Bruco on Sunday, August 3rd at 3 p.m. at the Dragonfly Park Pavilion in West Seattle (4111 26th Ave SW). Please dress comfortably for this community gathering in the park.
Photos, memories and condolences can also be shared with Laura’s friends and family at the Kinzley Funeral Home online tribute page at kinzleyfh.com/obituary/laura-bruco
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)
Family and friends are remembering Arlene Emel, and sharing this remembrance with the community:
Arlene Hazel (Harrington) Emel lost her battle with Lewy Body dementia on June 27, 2025.
Born June 29, 1938 at Fort Jay on Governor’s Island, New York, Arlene spent her childhood as an Army brat crisscrossing the country at least 3 times by train. After her family settled in Seattle, she attended Ballard High School, graduating in 1956.
In August 1959, Arlene married Harold Emel, which began a 66-year-long loving marriage that produced 4 children (Michele, Kathleen, Jessica, and Thomas). When those children were grown, Arlene and Harold adopted Jessica Nicole for a grand total of 5 children, followed by 4 grandchildren (Cory, Xavier, Haley, and Josh) and 3 great-grandchildren (Litha, Thomas, and Elodie).
Arlene and Harold lived in West Seattle from 1960-1978.
Arlene loved roller-skate dancing and even dabbled in roller derby. She spent 50 years in Girl Scouts and over 20 years as a foster parent along with her husband Harold. Arlene’s Catholic faith played a huge role in her life of service to family, friends, community and Church. Arlene’s service touched many lives and we are better for knowing her.
Eternal rest grant unto her soul and may perpetual light shine upon her.
In Arlene’s honor, please send donations to the Silver Sage Girl Scout Council: girlscouts-ssc.org
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)
Family and friends are remembering Lou Landino, and sharing this remembrance with the community:
Louis Landino
March 17, 1941 – June 29, 2025Louis Landino, a driven and accomplished man, passed away on June 29, 2025, at the age of 84.
Born in West Chester, Pennsylvania on March 17, 1941, Lou went to Muhlenberg College for his undergrad and University of PA in Philadelphia for dental school. Lou then made his home in Seattle, where he attended the University of Washington to obtain his specialty in Orthodontics. After graduation, he began to build a decades-long career as an orthodontist. With more than forty years in practice with his two locations in Tukwila and West Seattle, he earned a reputation for excellence, precision, and dedication to his craft — helping shape the smiles of countless patients and leaving a lasting mark on the local community.
Lou had a vigor for life. He raced Formula One cars, piloted planes, hunted and fished, golfed (with several hole-in-ones), carved birds with precise detail, painted, and crafted furniture by hand. Each of these pursuits reflected not just talent, but a commitment to learning, improving, and doing things well. He was a man of great skill and deep pride in everything he accomplished. Even after suffering a stroke with partial paralysis in 2008, he began to paint with his non-dominant hand — continuing to produce expressive, abstract works that still reflected his eye for detail and creative spirit.
He is survived by his wife, Lori; sister, Susan; daughters, Marti and Rachel; six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews. His legacy endures in the many things he built, created, and achieved throughout his long and full life.
A celebration of Lou’s life will be held (update) at The Hall at Fauntleroy, 9131 California Ave SW, on Sunday, August 3rd, 2025 from 2 pm – 4 pm.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to honor his memory by embracing the things you do best — with pride, purpose, and an unwillingness to settle for anything less than your highest standard.
Please share photos, memories and condolences on the guestbook located at emmickfunerals.com/obituaries/louis-landino
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)
Family and friends will gather September 6 to celebrate Dan Monahan‘s life, and they’re sharing this remembrance now with the community:
John Daniel Monahan (Dan) was born on July 26th, 1990 and passed away on April 4th, 2025 in Seattle at the age of 34.
Dan was a creative, thoughtful, and accomplished person who also struggled with a lifetime of physical and mental challenges. He was an insightful nature photographer and a prolific writer of fantasy and satire. He spoke and wrote fluent Japanese, which he taught himself – then lived in Japan teaching English to high school students. He was passionate about the martial arts and was a devoted student of Buddhism. He researched and studied extensively the many layers of the human body including all the trigger points, in order to treat his chronic pain from Ehlers Danlos Syndrome. He often supported people who were having troubles in their lives – serving a support role for friends and family who were coping with challenges of the body, mind, or spirit. He worked a long season in the depths of winter at a homeless shelter alongside people who were addicted, sick, and hurting. Dan loved risk, travel and adventure, climbing trees, walls, cliffs, buildings and mountains. He felt most at home in the woods, surrounded by tall forest trees, bodies of water, mountain vistas, and wild animals.
Dan was a beloved son to Viveca and John Monahan. A caring brother to Christina. A cherished nephew to Patricia Monahan and her late husband, Guy Shinkaruk, Moira and Jim McCarthy, Kate Marin, Deirdre Monahan, the late Tom Monahan and his wife, Mary Lester, and the late Mary Wanco and her daughter Melissa Landolfi. He was a dear friend to many from childhood, college, work, community, and life. He will be deeply missed.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at 10:00 am PDT. Please contact the family for more details – vivecamonahan@gmail.com
As we come together to honor Dan’s legacy, we invite all who knew him to share their memories of Dan and upload photos to his memorial page.
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)
Family and friends will gather September 21 to celebrate the life of Constance Wilkinson, and in the meantime are sharing this remembrance with her community:
Constance Marie Wilkinson
October 30th, 1957 – June 14th, 2025Constance Wilkinson, 67, of Seattle, parted this earthly realm on June 14th, 2025, surrounded by friends and family in her home. She fought bravely and hopefully after being diagnosed with stage four renal cell cancer in April of 2024. For those that knew Constance, she had an infectious enthusiasm for living and undying gratitude for life and its multitude of joys.
Born in Riverton, Wyoming, Constance lived on the family homestead before moving to Missoula, Montana at the age of 5. One of five children, there was never a lonely moment on the family farm. Her home was filled with music and books that moved her and shaped her perspective. Throughout her life, no matter the distance or time zone, she kept her relatives close in her mind and heart, and loved sharing stories about family traditions and the fun they had together. Family reunions and annual Christmas drawings were cherished rituals.
After graduating high school in 1976, she set her sights on Alaska with a plan to work hard and have an adventure while saving money for college. She fondly recalled being a “tough chick” while living in Juneau where she commercial fished in the summers and tended bar in the winters. Her chapter in Juneau lasted over a decade, and in that time, she developed a lifelong love for exploring untamed nature and being on the water. She left her mark on the city and its people; when she returned over 30 years later, she was recognized and greeted warmly everywhere.
Constance eventually made it to her longtime home of Seattle to pursue higher education and a career of service to others. She received a master’s degree in Speech and Hearing Sciences from the University of Washington (UW) before beginning an impactful career in health care as a speech-language pathologist at Harborview Medical Center (HMC). There she met her future wife and the love of her life, her “sweet Kyra Jo.” Leading by example with kindness, patience, and a smile, she was quickly promoted to manager of the Comprehensive Outpatient Rehabilitation Program (CORP). With a talent for uplifting and bringing out the best in others, Constance next became a clinical instructor for the Medical Speech Language Pathology Program at UW. She ended her working career as the Director of Rehabilitation Therapies at the VA Puget Sound Healthcare System which she referred to as her “dream job.” Constance made lifelong friends in every organization she touched. Beyond performing her roles earnestly and exceptionally well, she was a beloved and trusted mentor to countless individuals, and her positive influence created a ripple effect of benefit within the rehabilitation community in Seattle.
Constance’s vivacity could be seen in the sparkle of her bright blue eyes. Her warm smile was almost always accompanied by a happy laugh. She was passionate about building relationships and was an incredible host with impeccable style and taste – memories of joyous gatherings and connecting others to create new friendships were gifts that will continue to be enjoyed far beyond her time with us. She conducted over twenty wedding ceremonies for friends – a testament to the trust and intimacy of her relationships. She was most content in the company of her devoted wife, Kyra, with whom she was inseparable.
Many interests brought her joy – animals (especially dogs), music, literature, sailing, art, travel, but above all, she loved people and believed in their goodness. She had many nicknames, Con, Cob, Const and Stink. The most fitting, however, was “the Queen of Gratitude.” Always thinking of how to help others, she was active in her community and generously volunteered her time and resources to numerous non-profit organizations. She began as a singing member of the Seattle Women’s Chorus and soon became a Board member and the president of Flying House Productions. After retirement, however, there was less time for the rehearsals as she and her wife lived their dream to travel and sail extensively with their precious “sea dog” Remy accompanying them whenever possible. Her favorite trip was to Uganda and Rwanda where she completed four separate treks to see the mountain gorillas in their remote natural habitat. Despite her busy travel and sailing schedule, she found time to continue to give back to her community by joining as a Board member at Companis, a non-profit organization she was passionate about.
Constance was loved by many. She is survived by her wife, Kyra Becker, her brother Wesley Wilkinson (Jane Wilkinson), her brother Kenneth Wilkinson, her sister Holly Hoff (James Hoff), and her sister-in-law Donna Wilkinson. She was predeceased by her brother Daniel Wilkinson and her beloved dog Remy.
For the celebration of her life, Constance wished to host an event with “good red wine” to be served in stemware with a performance of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by the Seattle Men’s Chorus. Those requests will be honored at a gathering on September 21, 2025 at the Hall at Fauntleroy.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Companis.
When asked how we can honor her memory, Constance encouraged to us all to “live a life of gratitude, love, and forgiveness.”
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)
Family and friends are remembering Rosie Caton and sharing this remembrance with her community:
Rosemary “Rosie” Murtha Caton passed away on May 10, 2025.
Rosie was raised in San Jose, California. She attended St. Mary’s Grammar School, Notre Dame San Jose High School, and Seattle University, where she received both her Undergraduate and Masters Degrees. After graduating, Rosie worked at Rainier Brewery as a tour guide until she was hired at United Parcel Service (UPS) in the Security Administration Department, where she later retired after 30 years.
Rosie attended Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in West Seattle and took part in many fundraisers and events through the years. Rosie belonged to ICM (Institute of Christian Ministries) and after 2 years of training, she found her mission in prayer ministry at the King County Jail, woman’s division. She would visit the women weekly with Sister Angelica for 10+ years.
Rosemary was married to William (Bill) Caton for over 44 years, until her passing. She is survived by her daughter, Kristine (Josh) Waitman, as well as her sister Kathleen Purdy and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
As a servant of the Lord, Rosie will continue her devotion to her Lord and Savior at her new heavenly location! She will be deeply missed by her family and friends. A private family gathering will be held at a later date.
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)
Last week, we reported on Pegasus Book Exchange in The Junction inviting customers past and present to share stories and memories about and for owner Fred Epps, Now, they’re renewing the request, with word that Fred has died. Emma Epps sent this update:
My dad (Fred Epps) was diagnosed with cancer on June 1st, 2025, and his health declined very rapidly even as we were waiting for more information from the doctors. He passed away peacefully at home in the early morning of June 18th after only two days in hospice care. That’s just the way he would have wanted it — no long lingering for him.
We will hold a public memorial in August, hopefully on the 16th which was his birthday; details to come. In the meantime, we welcome your Fred stories here.
If you would like to do something in his memory, we believe he would simply encourage you to support independent and local businesses, musicians, and artists.
The Epps family says that upcoming birthday would have been Fred’s 72nd; he was born August 16, 1953, in Washington, D.C. We’ll let you know when the memorial plans are finalized.
A memorial service is planned Wednesday (June 18) for Jeannette Eshom. Here’s the remembrance her family is sharing:
Jeannette Eshom, 78, of Seattle and Mesa, Arizona, passed away on Saturday, June 7, 2025, lovingly surrounded by her children.
Born August 1, 1946, to Edward and Mae Hetrick, Jeannette grew up in West Seattle, fifth in the group of six siblings. She graduated from Chief Sealth High School in 1964.
Known for her warmth, quick laugh, and quiet strength, she touched the lives of everyone who knew her.
In 1967, she married John Eshom, and together they raised three children: Terrie, Roger, and Christina. Later, she met her beloved partner John Burmaz, where they have been a steady presence in the West Seattle community. Together, they shared more than 40 years of love, laughter, and adventure — traveling the world, building a beautiful life, and eventually spending their winters in Mesa, Arizona. There, they cultivated an additional community of friends, as well.Jeannette worked for many years at Thomas Jefferson High School in Federal Way, dedicating herself to the growth and well-being of students. After retiring, she fully embraced her passions: traveling, genealogy, crafts, ceramics, and bingo. She loved the joy of finding hidden treasures in thrift stores and delighted in collecting Disney figures, coins, and stamps.
Jeannette was generous with her time, always the first to help friends, neighbors, or family. She had a gift for making people feel welcomed and included, and she was the kind of person you could always count on. Her love for her family knew no bounds—she enjoyed many family events, grandkid activities, and milestones in the lives of her children and grandchildren. Family reunions were her favorite, and she was often the heart of every gathering. She was adored by her family and beloved by many friends across the country and beyond. Her kindness, humor, and steady presence made a lasting impact on all who knew her. Her friends continue to share how much she was loved and how much she meant to them.
Jeannette was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters Jean and Sally, and her brother Ed. She is survived by her longtime partner John; brothers John and Mark; daughters Terrie (Sofiane) and Christina (Steve); son Roger, and grandchildren Ryan, Zachary, Alex, and Chloe, her partner’s sons Ken and Rick, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.
A memorial service will be held at Fauntleroy Church, UCC in West Seattle on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at 2:00 PM, with a Celebration of Her Life immediately following. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Heart Association (or other charity of your choice) in Jeannette’s memory.
Her generous spirit and unwavering love will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)
Family and friends are remembering Wolfgang Grasst, and sharing this remembrance with his community:
Wolfgang Grasst
July 30, 1940 – May 3, 2025Wolfgang Grasst passed away peacefully at home on May 3, surrounded by his family, after a long journey with dementia. He was 84.
Born in Germany in 1940, Wolfgang immigrated to Seattle with his parents at the age of 14. He graduated from West Seattle High School in 1958 and earned his degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Washington. It was there he met his beloved wife Sharon — who still remembers being impressed by his sharp sense of style and his love of a fast car.
Wolfgang was a true entrepreneur at heart. He and his father, Georg, opened Georg Grasst, Inc.—a foreign auto parts business that grew to six locations and a warehouse in Seattle over the course of 25 successful years. Wolfgang brought his passion for quality, innovation, and mentorship into every aspect of the business. He encouraged employees to share ideas and often paid for classes to help them grow. Sharon joined him in running the business, overseeing the accounting side, and their sons pitched in with odd jobs — learning how to paint cars and turn a wrench, just like their dad and Opa.
After stepping away from the auto parts industry, Wolfgang embraced a second career in real estate with Windermere. Gregarious and generous, he thrived in the industry, mentoring newer agents even in a competitive environment. It was never just business for Wolfgang — it was about building relationships and helping others succeed.
Wolfgang and Sharon raised two sons, Wolfgang Jr. and Tony, and he took immense pride in being a father and, later, an Opa to three grandsons and a growing generation of great-grandchildren. He coached soccer teams, hosted epic Easter egg hunts, and built pinewood derby cars that defied the laws of physics (and made a few competitive dads a little suspicious). He believed in the value of education, sending his sons to German summer school and even taking them to Germany to connect with their roots.
Wolfgang’s playful spirit made ordinary days unforgettable: wrestling matches in the living room, ping pong games that no one could win but everyone loved, and VW bug rides through the streets of West Seattle. He was funny, sharp, and always full of energy. Even as his memory faded, his love of music — especially the blues — never left him. He could still light up a room with a good joke or a good tune.
In retirement, Wolfgang found joy in cooking elaborate meals, tackling handyman projects with professional precision, and hosting lively birthday parties where he mixed his signature MaiTais and turned gatherings into celebrations.
He was a man of many talents — engineer, entrepreneur, real estate agent, mentor, cook, handyman, music lover — but most of all, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend.
Wolfgang, thank you for all the laughter, lessons, and love. You left your mark on each of us. We miss you deeply—and we celebrate the life you lived so fully.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to West Seattle Food Bank westseattlefoodbank.org; White Center Food Bank whitecenterfoodbank.org; Public Broadcasting Service pbs.org; or a charity of your choice.
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)
Family and friends are remembering Tara DeGraff and sharing this remembrance with the community:
Tara Elaine DeGraff
January 20, 1973 — May 23, 2025We are deeply saddened to report that our daughter Tara passed away unexpectedly at her home in West Seattle on May 23, 2025.
In her 52 years, she lived a life full of adventure, curiosity, and compassion. From managing Rock Climbing gyms and teaching students, to studying wooden boat construction at the NW School of Wooden Boat Building in Port Townsend and to falling in love with the study of cheese so she could become a certified cheese monger. These last years, she was teaching herself Swedish and the Greek languages as these were two countries she visited and loved.
When she was very young, she left a note for her mom that read “dearest mommy, I’m out in the woods playing with my work.” And that was how she viewed the world; always a serious person who wanted to have joy in everything she did. She loved everything in the natural world and her happiest times were in the woods and beaches of the Northwest spending time with her family and friends.
When Death Comes by Mary Oliver (excerpt)
When its over, I want to say: all my life
I was a bride to amazement.
I was the bridegroom, taking the world into my arms.
When it’s over, I don’t want to wonder
If I have made of my life something particular, and real.
I don’t want to find myself sighing and frightened,
or full of argument.
I don’t want to end up simply having visited this world.Tara did not just visit this world; she engaged with all her heart. A special thank you to those in her life that always showed up for her with love and understanding. Our family will be forever grateful.
Tara is survived by her mother Victoria Nelson and stepfather John McNulty, and an extended family of aunts, uncles and cousins. A private family gathering will be held at a later date.
Share memories & photos at: emmickfunerals.com/obituaries/tara-degraff
– Care Entrusted to Emmick Family Funeral Home of West Seattle –
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)
Family and friends will gather June 12 to remember Kate Mitchell, and are sharing this remembrance with her community now:
Kathleen Ann (Sharp) Mitchell
November 10, 1920 — May 15, 2025
West SeattleKathleen Ann (Sharp) Mitchell, 104 years old, a longtime resident of West Seattle, died peacefully on May 15, 2025 after a brief illness.
Kate was born on November 10, 1920, the third child of Arthur Joseph and Eunice (Codd) Sharp on the family’s wheat and cattle ranch in The Dalles, Oregon. Her great grandfather homesteaded Galloway Farm on Threemile Creek in 1871.
Kate attended St. Mary’s Academy and graduated from The Dalles High School in 1939. She then attended Marylhurst College in Portland, Oregon and graduated in 1944 as an elementary school teacher.
In 1946, she married William Mitchell, whom she met when he was serving in the Navy and stationed in the Seattle area. After his discharge from the Navy, Bill and Kate settled in Seattle because they loved it so much. They eventually bought their home on Belvidere Avenue in West Seattle, where Kate lived for 67 years.
Kate worked at Frederick and Nelson in the payroll department. She also worked an evening shift at Shyler’s Multiphone Company as a Hostess, playing 78 rpm records. Customers in various restaurants around the city could put a nickel in the Multiphone which was located at their table. Kate would then say, “selection please” and play the requested song. She said that she worked until midnight and then would go dancing, getting up in the morning to go back to work at Frederick and Nelson. She always had so much energy.
She retired from The Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Co. (A & P). In retirement, she was the bookkeeper at Blake’s Bakery on California Avenue and had other freelance clients.
Bill and Kate loved the outdoors. With friends, they often fished in Puget Sound and skied in the mountains. They played Bridge and had fun throwing parties and socializing with their neighbors. Kate’s annual Christmas Nativity window was well known on Belvidere Avenue.
Bill passed away in 1977, and Kate faced the future with resiliency and determination. She never had children or remarried, but lived with a deep faith and a zest for life.
Kate participated in many community organizations. She loved the visual and performance arts and had season tickets to all the organizations in Seattle. She was a member of Seattle Opera Guild, NW Pacific Ballet League, the Seattle Volvo Club, and the Seattle Garden Club.
She traveled to Europe, Asia, Scandinavia, and Russia and around the United States.
As a devout Catholic, Kate was very active at Holy Rosary Parish in West Seattle. She spent her final years at Providence Mount St. Vincent.
Kate is remembered as a very cheerful, happy person and a loyal friend. She was always ready to have fun or to help whenever she was needed. She remembered everyone’s birthday and planned dinners and celebrations for family and friends.
Kate was preceded in death by her husband William Mitchell, her sister Joan Frischmuth, and her brothers Edward Sharp and Patrick Sharp.
She is survived by many nieces and nephews who will miss her very much.
God bless our Aunt Kate.
A funeral Mass will be celebrated at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 4139 42nd Ave. SW, in West Seattle on Thursday, June 12, 2025 at 10:00 am. Burial will follow at Holyrood Catholic Cemetery, in Shoreline, WA.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Providence Mount St. Vincent Foundation.
To share your memories of Kate, please visit: emmickfunerals.com/obituaries/kathleen-mitchell
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)
Family and friends are remembering Sharon Best and sharing this remembrance with the community now:
Sharon Elizabeth Best of West Seattle died on April 5, 2025 of complications due to Parkinson’s Disease. Beloved spouse of Margey Thoresen (deceased 2018). Sister of Mark Best (deceased). Survived by her brother, Jerry Best, her niece Wyndie, her brothers-in-law Drew and Howard Thoresen and her sister-in-law, Deb Thoresen, and by many loving friends.
Sharon received her BA Degree (with honors) from the University of Missouri in 1969 and her Juris Doctor Degree (with honors) from the University of Florida in 1977.
She was a Retired Lieutenant Colonel of the U.S. Army (1968 – 1988). She received a National Defense Service Medal – Excellence-in- Competition Badge (pistol), a Distinguished International Shooter Badge, an Army Commendation Medal, and a Meritorious Service Medal with 4 Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters. She directed that her cremated ashes be interned in the Tahoma VA National Cemetery in Kent Washington in memory of her 20 years of military service.
After retiring from the Army, she began practicing law, becoming a respected West Seattle Real Estate and Estate Planning attorney.
In lieu of flowers, conations in her memory may be sent to Mary’s Place (www.marysplaceseattle.org).
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)
Family and friends will gather June 21 to celebrate the life of Jay Murray, and are sharing this remembrance with his community now:
Jay Murray, lifelong resident of West Seattle, passed away peacefully at his family’s mountain retreat in Silverton, WA, on Friday, March 7th, 2025, where he and his family have enjoyed life alongside the South Fork of the Stillaguamish River since his childhood. He passed away just shy of his 89th birthday. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Joanne (McCarthy) Murray; his son Vern Murray (Jenny); daughter Meredith (Murray) Blache; and five grandchildren: Renee (Erik), Mercedes, Fiadh, Matthew and August.
Jay had long enjoyed photography as a hobby, building a darkroom and make-shift studio at home. Jay and Joanne bought an established photography studio on SW Oregon Street in the West Seattle Junction in 1966. Murray’s Studio captured cherished memories for decades, and many West Seattleites remember Jay as the photographer for their senior and family portraits and wedding photos. Eventually moving the studio to 4740 California Avenue SW, Jay and Joanne expanded their business to include bridal and formal wear.
Jay was involved in many West Seattle organizations and served as president of the West Seattle Junction Association, the West Seattle Chamber of Commerce, the West Seattle Hi-Yu community festival, and the West Seattle High School Alumni Association. He was also secretary of the Rotary Club of West Seattle.
Jay was a member of the Admiral United Church of Christ and, as a lover of music, he sang in his church choir and several barbershop groups.
Born April 24, 1936, to Clarence and Laverne Murray of West Seattle, Jay had two older sisters, Joy Humphreys and Jane Keitges, who preceded him in death.
He attended Jefferson Elementary, James Madison Junior High, and West Seattle High School, graduating in 1955.
While still in high school, Jay was sworn into the US Army by his father on his 17th birthday. He served in the Army Reserves until called to active duty from 1956 to 1958, after which he remained in the Reserves. Called again to active duty deployments at MacDill Air Force Base in Florida, in Kuwait during Desert Shield/Desert Storm, and in Somalia during Operation Restore Hope, he served a total of 43 years in the US Army, retiring in 1996 with the rank of Chief Warrant Officer CW4.
Active in several local, state, and national professional photography organizations, Jay was president of the Professional Photographers of Seattle and the Professional Photographers of Washington. Winning many awards, Jay was proud to be recognized as a Photographic Craftsman by the Professional Photographers of America and a Fellow of Photography by the Professional Photographers of Washington.
Jay and Joanne traveled and enjoyed the great outdoors, from the mountains to the sea. Both avid skiers, they joined Sahalie Ski Club at Snoqualmie Pass in 1961. They also enjoyed Whistler and Blackcomb, where they celebrated his 83rd birthday skiing with three generations of family. He and Joanne traveled to Hawaii almost every year. They especially cherished walking the beaches at Bellows Field on Oahu.
Friends are invited to a Celebration of Jay’s Life on Saturday, June 21st, at 2:00 pm at Admiral Church, 4320 SW Hill St, Seattle (California Ave SW & SW Hill Street).
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)
Family and friends will gather Sunday (June 1) in honor of LaVonne Christopherson, and are sharing this remembrance with the community:
LaVonne Christopherson was born on January 21, 1933, in Sioux City, Iowa, to her parents, Louis and Claudia McClaflin. During her young childhood, her family moved to Valley City, North Dakota, where LaVonne became an avid ice skater.
During World War II, LaVonne and her parents moved to Gig Harbor, Washington, for work. Her father was a carpenter, and her mother was a secretary in the logistics department at the Bremerton Naval Shipyard.
After high school, LaVonne worked for Booth Fisheries, where she met and married John “Gordy” Christopherson. They lived in West Seattle in a house overlooking Alki Beach, where they raised two girls, Doreen and Laura.
When the girls were in high school, LaVonne went to work at Seaboard Surety Company in the Bank of America building. LaVonne was active in the community, volunteering many years to stage the West Seattle American Legion Parade.
Throughout her life, LaVonne always had an elegant sense of style. When she retired, LaVonne spent her time on her true passions – being with her family, shopping, and traveling.
LaVonne passed away peacefully on May 19, 2025, at Swedish Hospital, surrounded by her family.
LaVonne is survived by her daughters, Doreen Vague and Laura Souza; her grandchildren, Alexander Vague, Bryan Clarke, and Monique Robbins; and her great-grandchildren, Brayden, Arielle, Olivia, Owen, Declan, and Gianna.
In place of flowers, please honor LaVonne by buying a flashy new pair of shoes, visiting a casino in her name, or donating to the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance.
LaVonne’s memorial service will be held June 1st at Haven of Rest Funeral Home, 8503 State Route 16 W, Gig Harbor, WA.
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)
Family and friends of Steve Ross are sharing this remembrance with his community:
19 January 1951 – 29 April 2025Rev. Dr. Stephen E. Ross passed away at Virginia Mason Medical Center in Seattle, Washington, on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, with his partner and spouse of nearly 54 years, Beverly, at his side. Steve had battled several chronic illnesses for many decades; in the end, his heart simply gave out. He was 74 years old.
The second son of Edgar and Florence Ross (a professor of music and a lifelong lover of books), Steve always valued education and pursued learning throughout his life. A 1969 graduate of Mount Pleasant (Michigan) High School, he went on to receive a Bachelor of Individualized Studies from Central Michigan University in 1974. It was at CMU that he met and married Beverly, charming her with his wit and hilarity. He earned his Master of Divinity (M.Div.) from the University of Dubuque (Iowa) Theological Seminary in 1977. One of his proudest educational accomplishments was completion of his Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) at McCormick Theological Seminary in Chicago, Illinois, in 1989.
Steve spent his career as a pastor for the Presbyterian Church (USA), serving first as a student pastor at First Presbyterian Church of Lancaster (Wisconsin; 1975-1977); then as full pastor at the First United Presbyterian Church of Tuscola (Illinois; 1977-1983), Charles Street Presbyterian Church in Rockford (Illinois; 1983-1985), the First Presbyterian Church of LeClaire (Iowa; 1985-1994), Lower Valley Presbyterian Church in Califon (New Jersey; 1994-2000), and Bloomsbury Presbyterian Church (New Jersey; 2001-2009) before taking an early retirement due to disability. Throughout this time, he also provided occasional pulpit supply for other local churches and served as a chaplain for local hospitals.
In 2010, Steve and Bev relocated to Federal Way to enjoy their retirement in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. They became active members of the Saltwater Unitarian Universalist Church (Des Moines, Washington). Throughout his adulthood, Steve found strong community as a Mason, belonging to Snow Lodge #44 (LeClaire, Iowa) and Phillipsburg (New Jersey) Lodge #52 before retiring to Washington. Once in Washington, Steve became involved with the Thornton F. McElroy Masonic Lodge #302 (Federal Way). A crowning achievement in the later part of his life was serving as Worshipful Master of this lodge in 2017. Steve and Bev moved to the West Seattle neighborhood in 2023.
Steve was a gifted musician, poet, orator, and teacher, and he regularly utilized these skills in his sermons and services. With his musical partner Bob Jensen, Steve wrote and performed a number of original songs that reflected the progressive values of the reformed Christian protestant tradition.
Despite devoting his life to the church, Steve struggled deeply with his calling to be a minister. His progressive social values and his belief that faith should be constantly questioned, challenged, and worked on rather than blindly followed often created tension in the church communities he served. Even so, he remained a dedicated servant of the Presbyterian Church, even when it occasionally broke his heart.
Steve was active in outdoor ministry and spent many years donating time and energy to Presbyterian camps. He had an early love of nature and traveling, fostered through time in the Boy Scouts of America and through family vacations. Annual camping and RV trips across the United States while his daughters were growing up are the basis of many formative family memories, and he continued to travel internationally and domestically in his retirement.
No matter what else was happening in his world or in his health, Steve was always an extremely proud dad and devoted family man, gleefully attending every performance, celebration, game, play, or other important event in his daughters’ lives and later in his grandchildren’s lives. He delighted in the successes of his family and was a familiar fixture in both of his daughters’ communities right up until the end of his life.
Steve was known among family and friends, colleagues and congregants, for his wisdom, inquisitiveness, and humor, and his creative and fascinating mind will be missed.
Steve is survived by his wife, Beverly (Thornton) Ross of Seattle; his daughters, Deanna (known as “D”) Ohlandt (Chad Ohlandt), of Alexandria, Virginia, and Angela Ross (Jeff Loidhamer) of Seattle; as well as his grandchildren, Callen, Zachariah, and Gillian Ohlandt, and Arli Loidhamer. He is also survived by his brothers, David Ross of El Paso, Texas, and Philip Ross of Flint, Michigan, and several nieces and nephews and their children.
Celebrations of life will be scheduled for the coming months with an effort to make participation easy for those who loved him.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in his name to the Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad (through the nonprofit Western Forest Industries Museum) or to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)
Family and friends are remembering Richard Haich and sharing this remembrance with the community:
In the early morning of March 28th, Richard Haich peacefully passed away after a long illness. He was met at the gates by the love of his life, Joann, who preceded him in death.
Richard’s childhood was spent on the farms of North Dakota, and he would later move to Billings, Montana. As a teenager, Rick enlisted in the Army and earned his GED. After completing his 4-year Army commitment, he returned to Montana, married, and began a family. In 1967, the family moved to West Seattle when Rick accepted a position with Boeing. Wishing to practice his interviewing skills, the following year he interviewed with IBM and was hired on the spot! He retired from IBM in the late 1980s.
Richard and his first wife had 4 children, Chantille (Scott), Anelody (Greg), Chabrise, and Richard Jr. (Holly), all raised in West Seattle. During the 1970s and 1980s, he involved himself in many community clubs, including the Steelheaders, Metal Detecting and Rock Hunting clubs.
In healthier times, Richard was often seen fishing in Elliott Bay or finding treasure with his metal detector. Generous with his talent of home improvements and gardening, you could also find him at one of his children’s homes.
He leaves behind his children and grandchildren, Daniel (Miranda) and Wyatt Henry, Addison (Lindsey), Keagan (Ruth) and Trey Tice, Avery and Jackson Herb, and Reinier and Montira Haich.
A private memorial will happen later this year.
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)
One year after closing his Jefferson Square framing shop, Tom Sweeney has died. His family is sharing this remembrance:
Thomas J. Sweeney
February 11, 1951 – May 14, 2025Tom died in his sleep after an eleven-year battle with cancer. He fought the good fight right up to the end and we are so very proud of him.
Tom grew up in Eagle Harbor on Bainbridge Island, the oldest of four brothers. As a child, young Tom would take the ferry to Seattle alone on Saturdays to go to the YMCA and walk up and down First Avenue looking into the army navy stores, G.O.Guy, and all the old institutions of Seattle. His family moved to Bellevue in his teens and he was in the first graduating class of Interlake High School in 1969.
After attending college for a few years (WSU and BCC), Tom was a long-haul trucker across the Southern United States in addition to working harvests in Eastern Washington. One day on a whim he answered an ad for U-Frame-It and found his true calling, picture framing. He managed the UFI shops in Bellevue and Ballard before opening his own shop in West Seattle in 1992, where he created beautiful art for his customers until retiring in 2024.
Tom’s love of family was evident in everything he did. He and his wife Merrilyn raised their daughters to respect all human rights and to strive for equality. He was so proud of both of his daughters for dedicating their careers to social justice.
Tom loved watching the Mariners with his girls, and was a Seattle Sonics season ticketholder; after their sale, he never again set foot in a Starbucks. He was an avid skier and marathon runner. He was a voracious reader and music lover, enjoying genres of all kinds. He was interested in everything and, most importantly, he was an honorable man.
Tom is survived by wife Merrilyn, daughters Lily and Julianna (James), brothers Matthew, Jay and Kent, their families, and countless friends who meant the world to him.
Family was everything to Tom. He will be so very missed.
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)
Family and friends are remembering Dolores Oliver, and sharing this remembrance with the community:
Dolores Justine Oliver (nee Johnson) passed away peacefully at home on May 13, 2025 with her four children by her side. Mom was able to be at home under the care of her daughter Lisa in West Seattle for nearly the last ten years of her life.
Born on March 31, 1930 in Seattle to John and Carrie Johnson, she had two sisters – Gerry Craig, (preceded in death, Bob Craig) and Karen Cheha (John Cheha), along with 4 nephews, John, Alan, Jarren, and Jacob.
She attended West Seattle High School and graduated in 1948. She attended Central Washington State College from 1948-49 and had an interest in nursing. She met the love of her life, Donald James Oliver, and soon married in 1952 and remained married until his passing on May 20, 2012. During this time she raised four children (Lindy Oliver, Carrie Oliver (Terry Smith, spouse-deceased) Lisa Huget (Buzz Huget) and Michael Oliver (Janet Osborn, spouse-deceased) who in turn produced 10 grandchildren (Arienne, Reanna, Walker, Lillie, Abigail (deceased), Rebecca, Madelyn, Lydia, Michael and Maggie) and 26 great-grandchildren(Ryker, Ryder, Eva, Apollo, Coco, Raleigh, Terran, Mira, Ricky, Evan (with 3 great-great-grandchildren- Luke, Evalyn and Saorise), Will, Seth, Noah, Silas, Grace, Emmalie, Clara, Audrey, Lizzie, Sadie, Wes, Scarlett, Lila, Cash, Maverick, Rosslyn and Billie). Her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren were the love of her life and this love was clearly reciprocated during her lifetime – be it at home in West Seattle, at Gold Beach on Vashon island or her final years in Grandma’s Cottage behind Lisa’s house. Throughout her life she had a passion for gardening, fostered by her father John Johnson.
As her kids got older, she took on various jobs at Sears and Eddie Bauer and most notably a career serving students with special needs in the Seattle School District for many years (Roxhill, Fairmount). This was her passion, and she was beloved by her students and gained praise from her teachers and administrators alike for her skills and compassion for her students.
She will be missed but oh boy! What an amazing woman!
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)
Family and friends will gather May 31 to celebrate the life of Carrol Ann Andersen, and are sharing this remembrance with her community:
Carrol Ann Andersen (Nelson), beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend to many, passed away on April 12, 2025, at the age of 87. She faced mesothelioma with remarkable strength and grace, and although she fought bravely, her passing feels far too soon for someone whose spirit remained so full of life up until the very end. To those who knew her, it felt like she still had many vibrant years ahead.
Carrol Ann was born in Pipestone, Minnesota, on November 23, 1937, to Edgar and Alice Nelson. In her early years, she moved to West Seattle, a city she would proudly call home for the rest of her life. Deeply connected to the Pacific Northwest, she found joy in its natural beauty and couldn’t imagine life anywhere else.
Carrol graduated from West Seattle High School in ’56, after which, she married Donald (Don) Andersen, and together they raised two daughters. Her career spanned several years at Sears Roebuck before she moved on to Boeing, until her retirement. Her work ethic and commitment to excellence left a lasting impact on her colleagues and the many people she served throughout her career.
She had a passion for traveling; whether it be cruising, her annual trips to Hawaii, and recently Scotland and Ireland – everyone that met her loved her enthusiasm! Carrol enjoyed spending time at the family property, cheering on her Seahawks, working in her garden, sewing quilts, visiting friends, and making new ones. She cherished every moment.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Andersen, and her brothers, Larry and Robert. Carrol’s memory will be kept alive by her brother Ron (Gail), her daughters, Debbie (Paul) and Becky; her beloved grandchildren, Christina (Derek), Ryan, Michelle; and her great-grandsons, Alex and Owen. Along with her many nieces, nephews and long time friend, Pete Wicks.
In Lieu of flowers family request donations be made in memory of Carrol to:
~ Peace Lutheran Church, 8316 39th Ave SW, Seattle, 98136
PeaceLutheranSeattle.org
~ WiN (Welcome Table), 4118 19th Ave SW, Seattle, 98106
WestsideInterfaith.comA celebration of life will be held on Saturday, May 31st at 2:00 pm at Peace Lutheran Church, 8316 39th Ave SW.
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)
Family and friends will gather June 28 to remember Brennan Newquist, and sharing this remembrance with his community now:
Brennan “B” Jay Newquist
June 28th, 1994 – April 30th, 2025Brennan Newquist, a beloved son, caring brother, loyal friend, and true West Seattle native, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, laughter, and adventure. Born on June 28, 1994, in Seattle, Washington, to Ronald and Alison Newquist. Brennan was a fourth-generation West Seattle High School graduate on his mother’s side and took great pride in his deep roots in the community he loved.
Brennan’s early years were spent at Gatewood Elementary and Madison Middle School, before graduating from West Seattle High School, where he shined as a wide receiver for the football team. One of his proudest moments came when he caught his first of four touchdowns.
After high school, Brennan continued his education at Bellevue Community College, earning his associate degree before moving on to train in the field of Information Technology.
His first internship was with the Seattle Mariners — his dream job — where he left a strong impression even though the position was seasonal. He continued working in IT through various contracts and, during the COVID-19 pandemic, was able to work remotely from home, where he lived with his father.
A true Seattle sports enthusiast, Brennan was a devoted fan of the Seahawks and the Mariners. He was passionate about flag football, volleyball, gaming with his friends, and spending time at the movies with his dad. But above all, Brennan’s greatest thrill came from roller coasters.
At a very young age Brennan would travel to Disney World with his family, which fueled his love of roller coasters and high-adrenaline rides. He then began traveling across the country to ride roller coasters with his dad, from Columbus, Ohio to Cincinnati, Ohio to Hershey, Pennsylvania and many more cities, making countless memories and stories with his dad. His enthusiasm for the twists, turns, and adrenaline of coasters reflected the adventurous and joyful way he lived his life.
For his 18th birthday he wanted a super thrill. His sister, Amanda, surprised him with a skydiving adventure. With zero hesitation, he was the first one to jump out of a perfectly good airplane.
Brennan also had a special place in his heart for animals. Although he originally wanted a rabbit, he ended up adopting Storm, a rescue dog from the inner city of Olympia. Storm became his loyal companion, reflecting Brennan’s own kind spirit and unwavering loyalty.
Brennan will be remembered for his big heart, easy smile, and the way he made everyone feel welcome. His kindness, curiosity, and sense of fun left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him.
He is survived by his loving parents Ronald and Alison Newquist, his sister Amanda, his dog Storm, extended family, and countless friends who cherished his spirit.
A celebration of Brennan’s life will be held on his 31st birthday, Saturday, June 28th, 2:00 pm, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 4001 44th Ave SW.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a local animal rescue or roller-coaster preservation group — two causes close to Brennan’s heart.
May his memory live on, may he always ride the biggest coaster in the sky.
And, if you’re thinking about doing some thrill seeking, and having second thoughts… just ask yourself – “What would Brennan do?!”
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)
Family and friends are remembering Laura Bruco, and sharing this remembrance with the community:
Laura May Bruco, 1970-2025 (nee Laura French Bland, Laura Bland Ullman)
It is with great sorrow that we announce the unexpected passing of Laura May Bruco on Sunday, April 6th, 2025, at her home in Emery, SD. Laura died from a sudden cardiac event after a morning spent doing what she loved – spending time in her garden socializing with her dear friend and neighbor, Luann Enander, in the company of her beloved cats, Phryne and Hazel, and her adoring canine sidekick, Rocky. She had just turned 55 two weeks prior.
Laura was born in 1970 and grew up with her adoptive family in Harrisonburg, VA. Even at a young age, Laura was a fun loving spirit who knew how to seize the day. Her lifelong friend, Tracy Smith, recalls the two of them doing dance routines to Elton John’s Crocodile Rock in the front bay window of her childhood house, which still has their initials carved in the concrete retaining wall. On hot summer days they could be found bouncing around in a giant innertube at Westover pool, belting out the lyrics to John Lennon’s Watching the Wheels. Throughout her life, Laura would stop to sing, dance and spend time with friends at every opportunity.
In 1993 Laura earned a B.A. in Sociology from George Washington University in DC. After graduating she accepted a position with Siebel Systems in Northern Virginia, a company that pioneered software solutions designed to help improve customer service and relations. Her work there allowed her to travel extensively and live in Australia, Europe, Canada, and India, as well as both coasts of the US. Laura always immersed herself in the local culture and made friends wherever she went.
Laura married Allen Ullmann in 1996. Of the many things they had in common was that they had both been adopted, so together they searched for their respective birth parents. Laura followed clues from a newspaper clipping about adoptions in the Roanoke area, which led her to the agency that had placed her with the Bland family in VA and eventually to her birth mother, Trudy Stephenson Willis. Trudy and Laura developed a lifelong bond when they reconnected in San Francisco, CA, in 2000.
After her divorce, Laura continued working for Siebel Systems until she took a break in 2006 to learn the healing art of Reiki, which she practiced while remodeling a South Carolina beach house in exchange for rent. Several changes of scenery later, Laura landed in Seattle, where she became a licensed massage therapist for a brief time before her life took a medical detour to battle breast cancer. During her healing journey she joined a knitting group at Seattle Yarn and discovered a passion for knitting in a new community of friends who embraced her as she was, helping to clear her “chemo brain fog” and rediscover the joy of inhabiting her body.
Laura loved living in West Seattle. She was a constant presence in Dragonfly Park, just yards from her front door, where she could be found every day walking the forested trail skirting Longfellow Creek with Phryne in tow and her anxiously adoring COVID rescue dog, Herbie, at her side. With her outgoing spirit and ability to build community wherever she went, she became the unofficial ambassador of her North Delridge neighborhood. Laura spearheaded efforts – such as Pride in the Park, Seattle Night Out, Friday Evenings in the Park, and Friends of Dragonfly Park – that transformed her neighborhood into a caring community.
In 2017, once she had recovered enough to return to work, Laura accepted a position as a Community Mental Health Advocate and a Certified Peer Support Specialist at Sound Behavioral Health. Laura drew on her own lived experience to help people navigate the complex system of mental health services and guide others in finding hope, health, and help.
In 2019, she enrolled in the Smith College School of Social Work. When COVID hit a year later, she left her job at Sound to focus on completing her master’s degree. After graduating in 2021, she began her liberation-oriented private therapy practice, combining her commitment to relationship building from her years in the customer service industry with her passion for helping others create healthy relationships, build community and lead fulfilling lives. Laura was an out-spoken advocate who believed in her clients’ capacity to reconceptualize self and find liberation through connection. In 2023, Laura was given the Social Justice Leadership award by the Washington State Society for Clinical Social Workers for her outstanding work in the community.
Laura uprooted her life in Seattle in 2023 and, with characteristic boldness and bravery, transplanted herself and her small brood to Emery, a small town with a population under 500. Even though she often felt alone in Emery, she had never been happier. She poured her heart into restoring her 1920s craftsman-style house and transforming the nondescript grass lawn, prone to flooding, into a magical rain garden with native plants and a yard that she proudly told everyone she recently had certified as a Certified Wildlife Habitat. Laura was filled with joyful excitement and anticipation to see the fruits of her labor blossom this spring. She was proud of her burgeoning edible garden, which she envisioned as a place that would support and build community by growing fresh produce for the local food bank, where she volunteered. She planned on sharing her bounty with her neighbors by setting up a pay-what-you-can produce and flower stand in front of her house. As she put it, “Gardening is my activism.”
In Emery, Laura continued offering her counseling services online, as well as supervising graduate students from Wayne State College and the University of South Dakota as they completed fieldwork requirements for their masters degrees. She gave so much of herself to the mental health field in such a short time that, as one of her practicum students observed, “She was an amazing person… her death is a significant loss for so many.”
Her final post to her blog (which can be viewed at The Center of You) announced her newest workshop to be offered this spring, titled Rooted in Being: Re-conceptualizing Self, Reciprocity and Liberation. Inspired by one of her favorite books, Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer, she posed the question “What if your life wasn’t a problem to solve, but a pattern to reweave?” and invited participants to “understand the forces shaping your life, and deepen your connections with yourself, others, and nature…. [to] rethink identity as a dynamic interaction with our surroundings, discovering kinship with nature and each other in the process.” Laura will live on in our hearts and minds, even as her body and spirit have been liberated and set free to join the forces that will always shape our lives.
Laura is survived by her birth mother, Trudy Stephenson Willis of Mountain View, CA; her older brother, William Snyder of Storrs, CT; and her birth father, Laurence Mcarthur. She is also survived by her adoptive father, Sidney Rodrick Bland and his wife Linda Heatwole Bland, of Harrisonburg, VA; her adoptive brother, Wilson Chatman Bland of Colonial Beach, VA; and her nephew, Joseph Sidney Bland of Horse Cave, KY. Last, but not least, she is survived by her friend and former husband, Allen J. Ullmann of Leesburg, VA, and a scattered but cherished community of dear friends and chosen family around the world.
If moved to do so, please volunteer or make a donation in her honor at your local food bank, animal shelter, or community garden, all causes she supported passionately.
You can share memories and thoughts with Laura’s friends and family at the Kinzley Funeral Home online tribute page at kinzleyfh.com/obituary/laura-bruco.
A celebration of Laura’s life will be held this summer in Dragonfly Park in West Seattle. Please check West Seattle Blog in the coming weeks for an announcement.
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)
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