Family and friends will gather Friday to remember Dr. Joseph P. Megale, and are sharing this remembrance with the community:

Heaven just got a whole lot better.

Dr. Joseph Patrick Megale [Dr. Joe] passed away on January 23, 2022, at the age of 94 among family in Palm Springs, CA. His passing was, believe it or not, a surprise to those who knew him closely. Dr. Joe, up until a couple weeks before his death was a vibrant, active, 94-year-old man. Anyone close to Joe new he was on the ball, both mentally and physically.

Joe was born on March 12, 1927, the third son to Giuseppe and Dominica [Pizzimenti] Megale in Coos Bay, Oregon. He and his mother Dominica moved back to Italy to care for her mother when Joe was 3 years old, his father staying in Coos Bay. Joe and his mother returned to Coos Bay before the War broke out when Joe was 7 years old. Joe attended high school in Coos Bay, where he was a standout football player. In 1944, he joined the Army, and was honorably discharged in 1946. He was quoted as saying “I went into the Army a boy and came back a Man.” He then attended undergrad studies at the University of Portland, followed by dental school at the University of Oregon. His senior year, he met the love of his life and future wife Mary “Diane” Kremmel [it did take an introduction from his sister Eleanor]. Joe and Diane were married on August 20th, 1955, Joe passed his boards [both Washington and Oregon] in June of 1956, their first child was born [Joseph] shortly after that, and they relocated to Washington to join his brother Dominic, who had an established dental practice in West Seattle (West Seattle Dental Center). Joe credited his brother Dominic for helping him get started in the dental field; he didn’t really know him growing up [Dominic was 14 years his senior] but he developed a great bond and friendship practicing together over the years.

Joe was truly committed to his practice; he believed in honesty, integrity, hard work and consistent support. His dream of providing exceptional dental care with compassion for his clientele all resulted in a successful practice which was supplemented beautifully by his sister, Paulina Beard, who practiced alongside her two brothers as a dental hygienist for the duration of Joe’s career. All his kids had a hand in the dental field and the daughters continued their work\careers with him for a number of years, some staying until his retirement, it was the true meaning of a “family practice.” Joe never wavered in his care for his patients they were first and they mattered. Joe retired in 1995 but continued to carry his dental license, volunteering at the Gospel Mission clinic in downtown Seattle and traveling to Moses Lake to provide pro bono care to people in need. A testament to his love of dentistry and way of giving back to a career that was good to him.

Joe was very active in his church, Our Lady of Guadalupe, where he received his CCD teaching certificate and was a founding parishioner.

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Family and friends will gather tomorrow in memory of Ginger Lei Andersen. Here’s the remembrance they are sharing with her community:

Ginger Lei Andersen

A true wonder of a woman, Ginger Lei Andersen continued her journey and departed our lives suddenly on January 20, 2022, at the far-too-early age of 58 after battling polycythemia vera, a rare blood disorder.

Ginger had the unique ability to make anyone in her presence feel like they were the most important person in her life. She had a rare balance of intellect and warmth, an infectious laugh and radiant smile. She also had an insatiable desire to learn, leading her to succeed in multiple disciplines and careers.

Named after the fragrant ginger flower used to make Hawaiian leis, Ginger Lei was born in Oahu, Hawaii on October 7, 1963. Her love of the islands always stayed with her. She returned often to enjoy hikes, the culture, long swims in the ocean, and indulge in shaved ice. Her family left the islands when Ginger was in grade school and moved to Danville, California. She graduated from Monte Vista High School, but not before spending a memorable season as the back half of “Musty the Mustang,” the school mascot. At an early age Ginger began developing her talent as a singer and performer. She was involved in numerous musicals and choirs from high school through college and beyond, including leading roles in “Hello Dolly,” “Brigadoon,” “Music Man,” and “My Fair Lady.”

After high school, Ginger graduated from Brigham Young University in 1985 with a bachelor’s degree and later completed a master’s in humanities. She married Jed Moffitt in 1984 and started their family: Miles, Seth, and Damen. Ginger loved her three boys and embraced her role as a loving mother to them. She taught English and humanities at BYU until the family moved to Sammamish, Washington, in 1999, where Ginger tutored and taught. After a short stint as a recruiter and HR generalist for The Gates Foundation, Ginger focused on a true passion: inspirational business leadership, focusing on organization performance and personnel development at Intellectual Ventures, where she worked for 9 years. She also earned a second master’s degree in organizational systems in 2015. Ginger and Jed divorced in 2012.

Ginger began a romantic journey with Ronny Sullivan in 2017 and together they found true love and an amazing connection. A longtime resident of West Seattle, Ronny introduced her to the cozy community. She fell in love with the area and purchased her perfect home in the North Admiral neighborhood, moving in on Halloween night, 2019. She spent many hours enjoying Alki Beach, embracing nature at Lincoln and Fauntleroy Parks, wandering through the Farmers’ Market, connecting with her neighbors through a book group she started, and walking her dog Odin with daughter-in-law Maaya. During 2021 she began a new journey in her career, completing her certification as a Hakomi guide and therapist. While Ginger had many titles, the most important one may have been “unofficial advisor, support, and confidante” to countless friends, family, and coworkers.

In May 2021, her son Seth and his wife Maaya moved into Ginger’s home, expecting to stay for three months. But they brought so much joy to Ginger and she to them, that the little family unit stayed together. When Ginger left Swedish First Hospital on New Year’s Day after a week-long stay, she returned home to the loving care of Ronny, Seth, & Maaya, who filled her final weeks with love and joy.

Ginger had a tremendous desire for adventure and loved to travel and experience other cultures. Throughout her life, Ginger traveled the world. While COVID slowed her recent travel schedule, the last year of her life was filled with adventure, including golfing in Palm Springs, walking the beaches in Hawaii, rappelling in Zion National Park, and visiting the Washington Coast multiple times. Ginger and Ronny also hiked in Utah’s National Parks, visited the North Cascades, Palouse Falls, and made a special sojourn to Ronny’s hometowns.

One of the highlights of her life was spending a month in Spain in the fall of 2021 with her youngest son Damen and loving partner Ronny. She also loved spending time with Miles at his home in Spokane and her home in West Seattle.

Ginger had the most amazing smile, eyes that sparkled, infectious warmth, and a presence you could feel when she walked into the room. She was deeply spiritual and intuitive but did not practice organized religion. Ginger was always ready for an adventure. She loved to travel, dance, competed in West Coast Swing, Seattle Improv, had a passion for tennis, was an avid gardener, loved hiking, and had recently caught the golf bug. The world was truly alive within her.

Ginger’s sudden passing came as a devastating shock to all those close to her. She is survived by her three adult sons, Miles Moffitt, Seth Moffitt (Maaya), and Damen Moffitt; her six older siblings, Kathi Kohler (Rich), Alan Andersen, Paula Tibbitts (Loel), Gail Newbold (Dave), Phil Andersen (Candace), and Dan Andersen (Kris); and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

On January 20 in the hours before she passed, Ginger enjoyed the beauty of Puget Sound, meditated, gave thanks for the joys in her life, and danced with Ronny, the love of her life, holding him close as they made plans for more adventures together. In memory of Ginger, take a moment to do the same

Services will be Friday, January 28 at noon at Forest Lawn Funeral Home in West Seattle. For any thoughts, wishes, photos, or memories about Ginger, please visit her Tribute page at dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/seattle-wa/ginger-andersen-10544706

(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to editor@westseattleblog.com)

Family and friends are remembering Agathe Goulet, and sharing this remembrance with her community:

Agathe Goulet
06/06/23 – 01/20/22

Agathe Rondeau Goulet passed away January 20, 2022, and is now in the company of our heavenly Father.

She was born in Saint-Félix-de-Valois, Canada on June 06, 1923, to Delia and Pierre Rondeau.

Agathe grew up skiing, skating, and hiking in the small town near Montreal, Quebec. Her love of outdoor activity would be lasting and remain with her for the rest of her life.

As she grew, she was deeply influenced by the Catholic religion practiced by her family and also by the nuns living within the town. She spent much of her youth being taught at the local convent, where she learned of God’s love and many life skills.

She married Gerard (Jerry) Goulet on August 21st, 1950 and moved to West Seattle shortly thereafter, where she would build her life around her family and church. In 1957 they built the house where they would raise their 5 children. She loved the community, the parks, Alki, and all the area had to offer. She worked at HUSKY Delicatessen for many years and to many who tasted it, her potato salad could not be beat! She remained in her house until just recently, when she moved to an assisted-living facility.

A devout Catholic, she was a loyal parishioner of Holy Rosary Church, attending services until she was no longer physically able to do so.

Agathe was blessed with a multitude of artistic talents. She was a painter, and excelled at sewing, needlepoint, knitting and crocheting. She was also a wonderful cook and an expert at crafts.

An ever-attentive mother and grandmother, her greatest enjoyment came from her family and time outdoors. Always on the move, you would see her all around West Seattle. She enjoyed hiking, tennis, travel, and attending family sporting events. Summers were spent with her 5 young children camping in a canvas tent at Flaming Geyser Park in Black Diamond. Later in life, solo hikes would find her miles away from her cabin on Anderson Island, looking for huckleberries, wildlife, and the beauty of nature all around. Much of the art she created was inspired by what she would observe.

Predeceased by her husband Jerry, sons John and Rene, and brother Gerard. Survived by daughter Ginette Correll (husband Tony), son Robert (wife Terry), and son Donald (wife Kathleen) along with 5 grandchildren, Danielle, Zack, Brianne, Savannah, Jake, and great-granddaughter Chloe.

A private service will be held at a later date.

Her family would love to hear how she may have impacted your life. For any thoughts, wishes, photos, or memories about Agathe Goulet, please visit her Tribute page at emmickfunerals.com/obituary/Agathe-Goulet

(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to editor@westseattleblog.com)

A remembrance from the family of Charlie Nickels:

Charlie Nickels
May 22, 1995-January 22, 2021

The more one is loved, the more they are missed. Charlie, you are missed beyond measure.

Family and friends will gather February 5th to remember Kenneth McKim, and are sharing this remembrance with his community:

Kenneth Davis McKim
August 19, 1947 ~ November 30, 2021

Ken was born on August 19,1947, and grew up in Springfield, Ohio, the only child of Albert and Dorothy McKim.

Ken passed away on November 30, 2021 in Seattle. He was surrounded by a large extended family, and enjoyed spending time with his many cousins. He attended Springfield North High School and was involved in wrestling, pole vault, and also enjoyed dramatic arts, including high-school musicals. He met Vicky Kaiser, who would become his high-school sweetheart and love of his life for more than 50 years. They got married on December 14, 1968 in Springfield and lived in Columbus, Ohio.

Ken attended The Ohio State University and completed his degree in veterinary medicine in 1971. After graduation, he and Vicky moved to Seattle and raised a family, with the births of daughter Jennifer and son Jeremy. Many years later in 1981, Ken’s parents moved to Seattle and enjoyed being close to family and making a home in West Seattle. He attended Hope Lutheran Church and enjoyed participating in the life of the church. including men’s ministry, mission trips to Mexico, and many other activities. His faith in Jesus was paramount in his life, directing his principles and was the foundation of his strength, especially during his extended battle with cancer.

Ken began his veterinary career in West Seattle at Lien Animal Clinic, until opening his own practice and purchasing a hospital in 1977. His career and practice would span over 41 years at Greentree Animal Hospital and he was a beloved and devoted veterinarian in the West Seattle community.

He was active in his community through membership in the West Seattle Rotary Club for more than 40 years, and was a Major Donor and recipient of several Paul Harris Fellows, as well as joining the Rotary Buccaneers and serving in numerous leadership capacities, including club President. For several years, he coached pole vault at Seattle Lutheran High School and enjoyed watching the success of athletes and track teams.

Ken enjoyed many outdoor activities including camping, hiking, hunting, and fishing, and was a long-time member of the West Seattle Sportsmen’s Club and the National Rifle Association. He had many hobbies and was a collector of antiques and tools, and enjoyed traveling to events as a member of the Pacific Northwest Tool Collectors.

Ken and Vicky dreamed of retirement at their property in Cle Elum, Washington, and Ken carried that dream forward by building a log home, and enjoying the company of many of his Cle Elum neighbors and friends. Ken was blessed to have dear and supportive friends who ministered to him, notably in these last several years when he required additional cancer treatment and care. We are especially grateful to everyone at Hope Lutheran Church, his extended community in West Seattle and Cle Elum, and fellow veterinary colleagues who have loved and supported him.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Dorothy (1999) and Albert (2000) McKim, and his wife Vicky (2013). Ken is survived by his daughter Jennifer (Glenn) and their three sons: Owen, Ian, and Seth; son Jeremy (Sydel) and their daughter Bailey and sons Hunter and Sam; his sisters-in-law Becky (Denny), Connie, and Mindy (Bruce), along with many beloved cousins, nephews, and nieces.

A memorial service will be held on February 5, 2022 at 1:30 p.m. at Hope Lutheran Church in West Seattle. The memorial will also be livestreamed at vimeo.com/668056677 and available from the church web site: hopeseattle.org/onlineworship.

If you would like to make a memorial gift in Ken’s honor, donations can be given in his name to his cherished causes: the Hope Lutheran Men’s Ministry Fund, Animal Husbandry at Hill Country Youth Ranch, or to the Rotary Foundation.

Please share memories, condolences & photos with Ken’s family at emmickfunerals.com/obituary/Kenneth-McKim * Arrangements entrusted to Emmick Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services 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 editor@westseattleblog.com)

Family and friends will gather February 5th to celebrate the life of Gary Wofford. Here’s the remembrance they’re sharing with the community:

Gary W. Wofford, age 82, passed away on Nov. 3, 2021, at St Clare Hospital, Lakewood, Washington, from Pulmonary Fibrosis. He was surrounded by his family.

Gary was born to George Wofford and Helen (Johnson) Frederickson of Bremerton and grew up in Poulsbo. He graduated from North Kitsap High School, class of 1957. He was very active in sports and school activities.

Gary married Ellen (Waali) Wofford in 1958. They were married for 62 years. They lived in West Seattle for 36 years before moving to the Lake Tapps / Enumclaw area.

When Gary resided in West Seattle, he coached football for The West Seattle Boys Club and West Seattle Jr. Football from 1959-1976. We know he impacted many young men’s lives and won several City Championships along the way! He also worked on the “Chain Gang” for the University of Washington football program for several years.

In his earlier years, he worked for Boeing, Sid Eland Distributors, and North Coast Electric. After moving to the Lake Tapps area, he had three restaurants in Bonney Lake and Enumclaw: Pard’s Place (Enumclaw), Midtown Grill (Bonney Lake), and 23 years as proprietor of BLT Sports Bar and Grill, 1997-2020 (Bonney Lake).

He was very supportive to the local community programs, charities, several youth programs, and the Veterans Home, located in Orting. He was active with WIAA High School Basketball by hosting teams in state tournaments at the Tacoma Dome for several years and supported many High School athletic programs. He also provided holiday meals for families in Enumclaw and Bonney Lake communities.

He is survived by his wife Ellen and their three children: Jana Decker (Joe Fox), Connie Bray, and Brent Wofford, and grandchildren Travis Decker (Lindsey), Kyle Bray (Willa Rector), Jennie Roush (Brandon), Brooke Coyle (Frank Tanner), Taylor Wofford, Devin Wofford, Domi Wolmer (Chris), and JJ Fox. Gary also is survived by 11 great-grandchildren and his brother Richard Wofford (Cathy).

In lieu of flowers, please donate to any of these organizations:

Bonney Lake Food Bank: PO Box 7521, Bonney Lake, WA 98391
Enumclaw Food Bank: PO Box 827, Enumclaw, WA 98022
Or any Youth Organization of your choice.

A private burial was held Nov. 9, 2021, at the Enumclaw Cemetery, Enumclaw. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 5th at the Eagles in Buckley from 1-4 PM.

(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to editor@westseattleblog.com)

Family and friends are remembering William (Bill) Ward, and sharing this remembrance with the community:

William D. Ward, age 95, a longtime resident of West Seattle, died peacefully on January 4 in Chehalis, where he resided for the last year and a half.

Bill grew up in Oakland, California and graduated from the University of Santa Clara with a degree in Civil Engineering. In 1952 he met and married Jeanne (Venen) Ward, his loving wife of 52 years. They moved to West Seattle and he joined a small engineering firm (at that time 13 employees) which became Skilling Ward Rogers Barkshire in 1987.

During Bill’s 40-year career, the firm grew into one of the largest structural engineering companies in the country, responsible for many prominent buildings on the Seattle skyline as well as engineering some of the country’s most notable structures, including the original World Trade Center in New York. After his retirement, Bill was a structural engineering consultant for The Catholic Archdiocese of Seattle.

One of his most enjoyable pastimes was fishing, both close to home on Puget Sound and on annual trips north with son Jim, a tradition which lasted almost 50 years. Still fishing at the age of 85, he caught his biggest fish ever, a 54-pound king salmon, in the Queen Charlotte Islands.

He loved road trips, including favorites such as Las Vegas and the surrounding national parks. And of course, he always loved ice cream!

Bill and his family were active members of Our Lady of Guadalupe Church. He is predeceased by his wife Jeanne, and survived by his son Jim (wife Patty) Ward of Chehalis, and daughter Terri Titcomb of Blue Hill, Maine, along with their families, 4 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.

A private graveside service 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 editor@westseattleblog.com)

Family and friends are sharing this remembrance of Joe Wenderoth:

Joseph P. Wenderoth passed away unexpectedly on December 13, 2021. Joe was born on March 9, 1961 to John and Barbara Wenderoth. He was the 5th of six siblings who grew up in White Center, graduating from Evergreen High School in 1979.

Joe was an explorer at heart. After graduating from high school, he moved to Southern California, where he began a lifelong career in the parking business. It was there that he met the love of his life, Lisa. They were married in 1984 and raised two beautiful children, Nick and Kalie.

Joe would tell you that he was never the smartest person in the room, but he was always the hardest-working one. It was that work ethic that propelled him as he steadily rose to leadership positions in the parking business. In 2012, he and Lisa made the risky decision to start their own company, Legacy Parking – a thriving business that will live on with his children.

Joe had many accomplishments in his life, but the one he was the most proud of was his family. His love for Lisa, Nick, and Kalie, along with his daughter-in-law Katie, knew no bounds. To say Joe will be missed is an understatement. He had cultivated an incredible group of friends and never missed an opportunity to include them in his adventures. Whether it was sailing in the Caribbean, hiking in the Rocky Mountains, or on Safari in Africa, Joe lived a good life, full of love and excitement.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents John and Barbara Wenderoth. He is survived by his wife Lisa, son Nick (Katie), daughter Kalie, siblings Mary (Tom), Mike, Chris (Janet), Cathy (Carl), and Carrie (Brian), and numerous nieces and nephews.

His family is heartbroken, Joe had a lot more life left to live and it is hard to imagine a world without him. To those who love him, Joe will always be with you. He will find a way to remind you of how much he loved you, and when he does it will surely leave you with a smile and just a hint of sadness.

(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to editor@westseattleblog.com)

Family and friends are remembering Deborah Lin Smith and sharing this remembrance with her community:

Deborah (Deb) Lin Smith passed away December 15, 2021, at the age of 55 after a battle with cancer.

Deb was born to Ronald and Karin Smith in Seattle, and shortly thereafter the family moved to Billings, Montana. Deb attended Boulder Elementary, Will James Junior High, and Billings West High School, graduating in 1984. She was always an excellent student and attended the University of California, San Diego, studying molecular biology. She received her Bachelor of Science in molecular biology in 1988.
Upon graduation, she moved to Seattle, where she lived the rest of her life. Her first job there was at The Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, and later she worked as a bench scientist at Zymogenetics.

A blind date led her to meet Mark Anderson, and they fell in love. They married July 13, 1996, on a record-breaking hot summer day, and thereafter made their roots in West Seattle. Their 25th wedding anniversary was celebrated this past July. The greatest joys in her life were her two daughters: Hanna, now a senior at Tufts University, and Keira, a senior in high school.

Deb was always a sports enthusiast, playing varsity volleyball in high school and on intramural teams. She was a loyal fan of the Sounders, Storm, and the University of Washington Huskies. She was an excellent cook and baker and loved exploring new tastes and flavors. She always had a love for animals, especially dogs, and her yellow lab Bailey will miss her dearly.

She participated in many volunteer activities including at the YMCA, the Red Cross, voter registration, and at Swedish hospital as a cuddler of newborns. She also spent much of her time while the girls were growing up attending their many concerts and sporting events including soccer, volleyball, basketball, and crew.

Personal relationships were always very important to Deb, and she maintained and treasured those throughout her life. She had a vast number of friends that she met through high school and college and later through involvement in tennis, her gym, and of course the many friends she met through involvement with her daughters’ activities.

She is preceded in death by her grandparents, and survived by her husband Mark, daughters Hanna and Keira, parents Ron and Karin Smith, brother Len Smith (Maura), sister Erika Smith, her in-laws Anne and Warren Anderson, her sister-in-law Kristi Anderson, and her many nieces and nephews.

A private family service will be held at a later date. To share your condolences and memories of Deb with her family and friends, visit funerals.coop/obituaries/deborah-deb-lin-smith.html. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift in her memory to the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, directed toward lung cancer research at fredhutch.org.

(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to editor@westseattleblog.com)

Family and friends are remembering Cheryl K. Baechle and sharing this remembrance with the community:

Cheryl Kay Baechle passed away unexpectedly 12-25-21 in Kent, Washington.

Cheryl was affectionately known by many as “Mommifer” and is survived by her three brothers Ken, Alan, and Gary Baechle; her three children Joseph, Jeffrey (daughter-in-law Lindsey), and Jennifer (“sonny”-in-law Marlon); her three grandchildren Fabian, Lauren, and Josiah; 6 great-grandchildren; and her beloved cats Herm and Chloe.

Cheryl was born and raised in Kalamazoo, Michigan. She was a single, hard-working mother who, after taking a two-week vacation with her kids to Seattle in 1977, fell in love with the Pacific Northwest and moved her family there in July 1978. As a young woman she enjoyed her kids, music, and a fun night out dancing. Later in life she enjoyed reading, crocheting, the Seattle Seahawks, and her Seattle “Marinaras,” as well as caring for her cats. Cheryl, you will be missed!

“RIP MOMMIFER”

Please share memories & condolences on the Tribute Wall at emmickfunerals.com/obituary/Cheryl-Baechle – Care & 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 editor@westseattleblog.com)

Family and friends are remembering Don Gardiner, and sharing this remembrance with his community:

Don Gardiner
November 23, 1927 – December 30, 2021

Community Dentist, Civic Leader, Sportsman, and Great-Grandfather, Don leaves a treasure of beautiful experiences with those he engaged and served. Don passed away peacefully during an afternoon nap on December 30, 2021, at the remarkable age of 94.

Don spent his childhood on a family dairy farm in Elmwood, Wisconsin. he joined the Navy in 1946, found a passion for dentistry, and attended Marquette School of Dentistry. Don joined his brother Jack in Seattle after graduating, settling in West Seattle to begin his dental practice and raise a family. Don was an active leader in the community, joining the YMCA board and becoming Lions Club President. His dental practice with Doctors Watts and Pierce was perfect for Don’s social personality. He especially loved the kids in his practice because they became his secret network of information on what was “really happening.”

Don also found joy in thoroughbred horses and became a regular at Emerald Downs race track. Eventually, he and his wife Judi became owners of several horses, winning numerous prizes and several significant events. he loved entertaining family members on race day and visiting the stables with trainers and other owners.

Don loved people and always found a way to interject humor to put people at ease and leave an endearing memory. Don is survived by his wife Judi, her daughters liz Bluechel and husband Turner, Diana Stilson and husband Roger, son Randy and wife Paula, daughter Michele Elliott, son Robert and wife Penny, and daughter Marci Sizemore and husband Bob. Don was a grandfather to eight grandchildren and great-grandfather to five. A private service will be held.

(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to editor@westseattleblog.com)

Family and friends are remembering Brent Curtis, and sharing this with his community:

Brent Curtis (January 2, 1967 – December 1, 2021), died in ICU with his wife Katie at his side, five days after suffering a massive stroke.

Brent was a loving and devoted husband, father, and community builder. One of his compatriots at Delridge Grocery Coop said of him: “Brent is the reason I came to start volunteering at the DGC and he was the continued inspiration that kept me going — his positivity, his love for his kids and his wife Katie, and his easy laugh even in the face of obstacles. I will miss his partnership and camaraderie within our Co-op, and the times our families gather will feel far emptier. But I will keep his inspiration close to my heart in the years to come.”

Brent co-wrote and helped make several films with a dear friend. He also wrote prolifically, self-publishing two of his novels. He, Katie, and several other artists cofounded Secluded Alley Works art coop and gallery in 2000-2001. He remained passionate about the arts, working tirelessly to build out rented space next to their home into a community performance and gallery space as part of the family’s garden consulting business.

Had he lived, he would have retired in April from his job of 30 years at the University of Washington as a manager in Transportation Services to manage full time the business he and Katie founded together, Weary Stone Farm. If you ever went to a Huskies game, he and his staff were the ones keeping game traffic moving and Montlake from becoming a parking lot. One of his colleagues of many years said of him: “He was a treasured individual here: Uniquely generous, intelligent, compassionate, and funny. He gave so much of himself to those around him. He changed the culture here at work and made our work lives better. I hope he was proud of that.”

This was the ethic by which Brent lived his entire life: Make every place you are in better than before you arrived. Be with all the people you encounter in the best way you can. Listen, learn, and help each person in the way that person needs, rather than in the way you might imagine they need. He and Katie would have celebrated their 20th anniversary in September of 2022. In addition to Katie, Brent leaves behind their two children, 11 and 15, his mother, brother, and countless people in all the communities of which he was a part.

The family will hold a celebration of life in Seattle, sometime in spring or summer of 2022, when we can all be together safely outdoors and remember Brent how he wished to be remembered: With music, fun, and joy.

(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to editor@westseattleblog.com)

Family and friends will gather Tuesday (January 11th) to remember Frances Ferraro (McIsaac), and are sharing this remembrance:

Frances was born in Morristown, New Jersey to Rose and Dominic Ferraro on May 13, 1922, and passed away on January 4, 2022, in Seattle at 99 years old.

Frances traveled to Seattle by train and married Lloyd McIsaac in 1945. She raised 3 daughters and 2 sons, and made her home in West Seattle. Frances was a wonderful hairdresser for 65 years, and worked at the Pink Rose Salon, where she later became the owner.

She is survived by her 5 children, Jimie Ann Martin, Margaret Rose McGraw, Lloyd F. McIsaac, Floyd A. McIsaac, Connie Adamo; 3 grandchildren; and 4 great-grandchildren.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in West Seattle on Tuesday, January 11th, 2022 at 11 am, with a Graveside Service to follow at Holyrood Catholic Cemetery at 1 pm.

To share your condolences and fond memories of Frances with her Family and Friends, please visit emmickfunerals.com/notices/Frances-Ferraro

Care and 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 editor@westseattleblog.com)

Family and friends will gather January 15th to remember Helen Neudorfer, and are sharing this remembrance with the community:

Helen G. Neudorfer
5/29/21 – 11/28/21

Helen was born May 29, 1929, to William and Gertrude Hensleigh in Jordan, Montana, where she was the youngest of 7 children. Helen attended Carroll College of Nursing, earning her Bachelor of Science degree. After graduation, she moved to Seattle and, while working at Marine Hospital, met the love of her life, Bob Neudorfer, who swept her off her feet – and the rest is history! They were married September 19th, 1953 and raised their four children in West Seattle.

Bob and Helen started Neudorfer Engineers in 1970 and Liberty Bell Quick Print in 1972. Helen continued running the print shop until her retirement. She was a very active member of Holy Rosary Catholic Church in West Seattle for over 65 years, being involved in ministering the eucharist to the homebound, volunteering with the soup kitchen, and giving eye and hearing exams to the children of Holy Rosary School. Helen, being a devout Catholic, attended daily Mass and was a faithful woman who loved the Lord, her family, church, and community.

Helen continued living in West Seattle until her recent move to Sequim in 2020. She returned to her heavenly home on November 28, 2021. Her devotion to her family and her firm belief in God, supported her in her illness and ultimately gave her peace. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bob, in 1986 and by her son, Scott, in 2009. She is survived by her sister Marion Shelton of Montana and her children Teresa (Don), Bill (Margaret), Mike (DeAnne), and daughter-in-law, Gail; six grandchildren, Greg, Morgan, Brad, Kelsey, Jenny, and Megan; and two great-grandchildren, McKenna and Wolfgang.

A funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 am Saturday, January 15th at Holy Rosary Church in West Seattle, with a reception to follow at Lanigan Center.

(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to editor@westseattleblog.com)

Family and friends are remembering Douglas W. Palmer III and sharing this remembrance with the community:

Douglas Wylie Palmer III
January 10, 1941 – October 29, 2021

Douglas “Doug” Wylie Palmer III, 80, born in West Seattle on January 10, 1941, to Douglas Wylie Palmer II and Alezena Francis Riley (née Spanier), died at home in Port Townsend, Washington, surrounded by family, on October 29, 2021.

Doug grew up in West Seattle; lured by the prospect of good fishing, Doug followed his best friends to Western Washington University in Bellingham, Wash., where he earned his bachelor’s degree in biology. While in college, he was inspired by President JFK’s speech about the Peace Corps, joined, and was stationed in The Philippines for three years. He taught biology and botany at St. Mary’s School in Sagada, Mountain Province, where he met and married his wife, Diklawan Sylvia Solang.

After earning his master’s degree in Public Health from the University of Hawaii, Doug started his 28-year career as a public-health officer with USAID. His assignments brought him and his family to Vietnam, Cameroon, Egypt, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and The Philippines.

After “retiring,” Doug and his family moved to Port Townsend and he took up a number of contract public-health positions with non-governmental organizations overseas. He worked with Project HOPE in Central Asia and Management Sciences for Health in Afghanistan for 14 years. He also worked aboard crab-processing boats in Alaska.

Doug was curious, adventurous, and an avid traveler. He enjoyed experiencing other cultures, appreciated art, was a passionate reader and archivist, and a collector of many things including stamps, fishing lures, aerogrammes, and artifacts from around the world.

In his last few years, Doug enjoyed playing pickleball, selling artifacts on eBay, cataloging photos and other memorabilia, telling stories of his many adventures, and fishing at his favorite spot — Point Wilson at Fort Worden.

Doug is survived and loved by his wife, Diklawan Sylvia Solang Palmer; his sons, Wylie Solang Palmer, Anton Degay Spanier Palmer, Evan Pekdasen Palmer; and daughter, Odawni Alezena Joy Palmer Sotka; and seven grandkids. He is also survived by his brother, Terry Spanier Palmer, and sister, Pam Palmer Lee.

Per Doug’s wishes, his body was donated for scientific research. There will be a memorial in honor of Doug in the next year when his family receives his ashes. Details to follow at a later time.

(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to editor@westseattleblog.com)

Family and friends are remembering Steven A. Olson, and sharing this remembrance with his community:

Steven A. Olson (September 24, 1956 – June 8, 2021), died in a tragic auto accident in Federal Way. Steve was preceded in death by his father, Donald S. Olson. Steve was the first of four siblings and grew up near the Fauntleroy Ferry dock in West Seattle. Steve played many sports growing up but loved his time playing Gil Dobie football. He met and retained a number of friends from the sport. His brother-in-law Chris, for one. Steve graduated from Chief Sealth High School in 1975 and went on to Wenatchee Valley Community College on a football scholarship.

Steve spent 36 years as general manager of our family business Ole and Charlie’s Marinas, first in Seattle, and then in Tacoma. Steve was a talented oil-painting artist. We all treasure the memories of his artwork. Famous northwest cowboy artist Fred Oldfield was his protege. Steve loved boating, and his sister’s family spent many years on regular trips to Lake Chelan and Lake Roosevelt boating, water-skiing, and just enjoying life. Steve spent an abundance of years sport fishing with his dad in Alaska. Steve had a huge passion for life, and that was evident when Steve entered the room. He had so many planned outings that the pandemic had changed, like a planned cruise once again to Alaska.

Steve leaves behind his mother Barbara, his partner Sandi, his sister Kim Mickelson (Chris), who was his best friend of 55 years, brothers Mark Olson (Janell), and Craig Olson. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, Christiana (George), Trine (Clint), Tristen, Matthew (Michelle), Marie (Dan), Jessica (Garrett), Luke (Willow), Lily, and many cousins. His Aunt Molly and Uncle Ed of Scottsdale, Arizona. And so many friends! Steve is dearly missed but will never be forgotten!

We also want to thank Federal Way officer Chris Mickelsen, who was first on the scene to help and the witness to the accident, Kristina, who cared for his dog and was there for him. Remembrances can be made to Medic One in his honor.

(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to editor@westseattleblog.com)

Family and friends will gather next week to celebrate the life of Catherine Mae Riddle. Here’s the remembrance they are sharing:

Catherine “Buggie” Mae Riddle passed away November 23, 2021. She was born on January 20th, 1991 to Greg and Eileen Riddle.

Family and friends will gather for the celebration of life for Catherine on December 14th, from 2 pm-5 pm at the Queen City Yacht Club, 2608 Boyer Ave E., Seattle. COVID-19 vaccination or negative test 72 hours in advance.

Catherine had to overcome several medical issues during the past seven years ranging from end-stage renal disease to two strokes in the last two years. She passed away from a rare condition, Calciphylaxis.

Although she had several health issues that she endured, she always remained in high spirits. When doing dialysis at the kidney center, her nurses nicknamed her “Sunshine” because she was always an easy patient to deal with. The first 2 years she dialyzed in center and for the next 5 years doing home hemo dialysis.

Everyone always had something positive to say about Catherine. She truly made the best out of whatever situation she was involved in and always spoke highly of anyone who walked into her life.

Catherine’s hobbies included online gaming, gifting the most unique and generous presents, and capturing photos of her loved ones. Catherine will always be remembered for her radiating smile, infectious laughter, bubbly personality, strength, and unconditional love. The lights of her life were her nieces and nephews who brought her great joy.

She is survived by her mother Eileen Riddle, sister Kristine Elliott (Ryan), brother Trevor Riddle (Shawna), nieces Reese, Grace, Shae, and Lucy, & nephews Luke, Blake, and Chase.

Catherine is preceded in death by her father Greg Riddle and grandmother Dortha Peterson.

You will always be loved and missed dearly, Buggie.

(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to editor@westseattleblog.com)

One week after the passing of Rev. Ron Marshall, his family is sharing their formal remembrance with his community:

Ronald Frederick Marshall

Ron was born on September 29, 1948, in Missoula, MT, the second of four children born to Robert Irwin and Eva Ragnhild Lien Marshall. He was baptized on November 28, 1948 at Our Savior Lutheran Church, Bonner, MT, by the Rev. Gordon V. Tollefson (1914-1985) and confirmed on May 31, 1964 at Hope Lutheran Church, Tacoma, WA, by the Rev. Harold E. Aalbue (1916-1976). He died in Christ on November 9, 2021.

He married Jane L. Harty on August 1, 1972, to whom he was married until his death. Their marriage was blessed with three children: Susannah, Ruth, and Anders.

Ron was ordained into the Christian ministry on June 25, 1979 at First Lutheran Church of West Seattle, by the Rev. Karl A. Ufer (1913-1981). Ron served First Lutheran Church of West Seattle as pastor from 1979 to 2021. He also served parishes in Los Angeles, CA, and Naselle, WA. He taught theology at the NW Theological Union at Seattle University, part-time from 1984 to 1992. Ron was a prolific reader, published author, and brilliant teacher, known for his community activism on behalf of the hungry and homeless. His deep kindness toward strangers and friends alike was matched only by his rambunctious personal style.

He is survived by his wife Jane; his children, Susannah, Ruth (Christopher), and Anders; his grandson, Felix, and a new grandchild to be born imminently; his brothers Richard Harry and Richard Robert; his sisters Doreen and Denise; and all of their extended families. He loved each of them very much and is so very deeply missed.

His cremated remains will be inurned in the Chapel of the Resurrection at First Lutheran Church of West Seattle in Spring of 2022. Memorials in Ron’s honor may be sent to either the Endowment Fund at First Lutheran Church of West Seattle or a Memorial Fund in his honor created for the purpose of funding the dispersal of his extensive and diverse library of philosophy of religion texts to low-income seminary students and scholars in India, Africa, and China as a missionary project. Gifts should be sent to First Lutheran of West Seattle, 4105 California Ave SW, Seattle WA 98116.

(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to editor@westseattleblog.com)

Family and friends are remembering Kathryn M. Armstrong, and sharing this remembrance with her community:

Kathryn “Kiki” Marie Armstrong – October 23, 1959–November 2, 2021

Kathryn “Kiki” Marie Armstrong passed away on November 2nd in Seattle, the same day her oldest sister Janet Ann Armstrong died in Columbus, Ohio. After a long and courageous fight against Younger Onset Alzheimer’s Disease, Kathryn left us at the much-too-early age of 62. She is survived by her husband Vladimeer Oustimovitch of Seattle and sister Carol Armstrong Wilkins of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, as well as numerous nieces and nephews

Kathryn was born and raised in Madison, Wisconsin as the youngest of three sisters. She was the daughter of John Alexander Armstrong, a respected professor of political science at the University of Wisconsin, and Annette Taylor Armstrong, who was also educated in political science but decided to devote herself to raising her daughters and supporting her husband’s academic efforts.
To her family and close friends she was known as “Kiki,” and as the youngest in the family she acquired an assertive character that served her well throughout her life. After finishing high school, she studied architecture at the University of Minnesota. Upon graduation, she moved to Boston to complete her internship as a professional architect. Forever wanting to expand her horizons, she then completed a graduate degree in finance at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology before moving to Washington, DC, where she transitioned to the management of complex real-estate projects.

Athletic and strong, it was on a climb of Mount Rainier in 1994 that she met her future partner and husband Vlad, who at the time was living in Chicago. After a long-distance relationship, they decided to move to the place they had met, the Pacific Northwest. Before settling in Seattle, they first spent a year on an epic backpacking trip around the world. It was an adventure that became the bedrock of their relationship.

After arriving in Seattle, Kathryn enthusiastically immersed herself in the challenging development of high-density urban housing, which was still in a pioneering phase. Her work was part of a downtown renaissance, and she leaves a legacy of many buildings, especially in Belltown. Forever filled with energy, Kathryn spent her time away from work exploring the beautiful area in which she lived. With her husband Vlad, she became a seasoned mountaineer and summitted most of the major peaks of the Pacific Northwest. Her natural curiosity took her traveling on every compass bearing; she was indefatigable. It was only at her beautiful home and garden in West Seattle that she ever allowed herself to relax.

Kathryn’s ashes will be scattered near Mount Rainier, which was her cathedral. Her radiant smile and boundless energy will be missed by all those who were fortunate enough to be graced by it.

(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to editor@westseattleblog.com)

Family and friends will gather next week for two events to remember Patrick “Almy” Almquist, a year after his passing. They are sharing this remembrance with his community:

Patrick James Almquist (“Almy”)

Our fun-loving, big-hearted brother died suddenly of heart disease last year on November 16, 2020.

Patrick was living with his brother Steve at their West Seattle apartment at the time of his death at age 61.

Patrick, born August 10, 1959, was the youngest son of Dick and Delores Almquist, who were long-time residents of West Seattle. Pat attended Lafayette Elementary, Holy Rosary Grade School, and James Madison Middle School. Pat graduated from West Seattle High School in 1977.

Growing up, Pat played several sports, and could often be found with a basketball in his hand. Pat was a longtime member of Local 440 flaggers union. Injuries on the job and illness kept him from living a fully active life later in his adulthood. Pat was an avid sports fan, and he loved trivia. His witty sense of humor, amazing memory and story-telling were some of his greatest attributes.

Pat was also known as “St Patrick” in our family, as he lovingly donated his own bone marrow to his brother Michael for a life-saving transplant on St Patrick’s Day 1998.

Pat was preceded in death by his parents, Richard D. Almquist and Delores A. Almquist of Seattle. Pat is survived by his brother Michael Almquist (Sally), brother Stephen Almquist, sister Sheila Almquist of Santa Rosa, and favorite (and only) niece, Jianna (Jia).

Patrick was generous of spirit, with a hearty laugh and a joke to share. His family and friends meant the world to him. Patrick is dearly missed by many.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 10:00 am Friday, November 19th, 2021, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in West Seattle, preceded by recitation of the Rosary at 9:00 am. A Celebration of Patrick’s life will take place the following day, Saturday, November 20th, 2021, at West Seattle Senior Center, from 2-5 PM. Please bring a memory, and any photos you would like to share. We kindly request that attendees wear a mask.

(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to editor@westseattleblog.com)

Family and friends are remembering Karen Hooper Daum and sharing this remembrance with the community:

Karen Hooper Daum was born January 14, 1954 in Seattle and passed away in early October in her home on Camano Island. She is remembered by friends as smart, thoughtful, fun-loving, compassionate and friendly.

Karen was a 1972 graduate of West Seattle High School and attended Highline and South Seattle Community Colleges. In 1976 she began working for West Seattle Associates as a receptionist, typesetter, and provided administrative support for the Neighborhood Telephone Directories.

That same year Karen married the love of her life, Gary Daum, a talented artist and gentle soul with a great sense of humor. They were a perfect match.

In 1998 Karen and Gary moved to Camano Island, where she became Director of Tourism and Operations for the Camano Island Chamber of Commerce. She served on the 2% Joint Tourism Committee and collaborated on activities with the Camano Senior and Community Center. She assisted with many community events.

Karen and Gary loved spending time on their Lake Tyee property with their good friends and neighbors. She was heartbroken after Gary passed away on February 21st, 2021, a devastating loss after 44 years of marriage.

Preceded in death by her parents Eileen and Bill Hooper and her brother Marty Hooper, she is survived by her brother Rod Hooper, nieces Michelle Besagno and Kelly Burdette, nephew Justin Worthen, grandnephews Nik and Ben Turcinec, and grandnieces Dani and Hazel Rose Besagno. There will be no services.

(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to editor@westseattleblog.com)

Family and friends are remembering Paul D. Wiese, and want the community to know of his passing:

We are deeply saddened to share that Paul David Wiese died on October 7, 2021.

He is preceded in death by our loving parents Ted and Doris and our other brothers Greg and Tom.

No public service will be held. Donations can be made to the charity of your choice.

Thank all of you for befriending and loving our Paul.

Please visit his Memory Page at klontzfuneralhome.com

(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to editor@westseattleblog.com)