The family of James N. Creighton is sharing this remembrance with the community:

James Nelson Creighton, passed away peacefully on Nov. 29, 2019 in West Seattle, after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease.

Born Oct. 1, 1939 to James and Thelma Creighton in Wadena, Minn., Jim (or “Jamie”) moved with his parents and younger brother, Stuart, to Seattle in 1942. He attended Fauntleroy Elementary, Denny Middle and graduated from West Seattle High School. It was there, in history class, where he met his future wife of 57 years, Diane Finch.

Jim played guard for West Seattle HS, and was talented enough to play football at the collegiate level: first for Everett Community College (All-Coast Conference and All-American Small College), then for the University of Puget Sound, where he also was an assistant coach for one year. He was recruited to play for the Chicago Bears.

Jim graduated from UPS in 1962 with a BA in history and education and became a public school teacher. He completed graduate work in U.S. history, philosophy and constitutional law at the UW, Seattle U., Central and Northwestern University. Jim taught history and coached football, track and basketball first at Grand Coulee, then at Luther Burbank, Ballard and Cleveland High. In 1973, he moved to Seattle’s Garfield High, where he taught and coached for 31 years.

There, he served as Garfield’s history department chair for 15 years, developing the Advanced Placement programs in U.S. history, European history, and American Government and Politics. He was an advisor to the College Board on AP History; his AP study guides were widely used by teachers here and nationwide. Jim was also Garfield’s head football and soccer coach, taking his teams to multiple playoffs and state championships. He concluded his teaching career at Newport High in Bellevue in 2006.

Jim was a member of Kappa Sigma at UPS and a proud member of the Big W Club at West Seattle High. He enjoyed reading, sailing, watching movie all things history and watching football (especially the Huskies).

Jim is survived by his wife of 57 years, Diane (Finch) Creighton; his daughters, Jocelyn (Chris) McCabe and Jennifer Creighton; and grandson Ryan McCabe. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Thelma Creighton, and his brother, Stuart Creighton.

It is impossible to capture the number of lives Jim impacted as a teacher, mentor, coach, and friend. However, we know all that he did for us as a father and husband, and for that, we are forever grateful.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Northwest Parkinson’s Foundation or Medic One. Special thanks also to the care team at Providence Mount St. Vincent.

(UPDATE) Friends and family will gather to celebrate the life of Jim Creighton on Saturday, March 7 from 1-3 p.m. at Salty’s on Alki. Please RSVP to 360.870.8708 or jmccabe34@hotmail.com to be added to the list of attendees..

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

Family and friends will gather Friday to remember John J. Musso, and are sharing this remembrance with the community:

John J. Musso was born on March 23, 1919, in San Pablo, California and passed away on November 27, 2019 in Seattle at the age of 100.

John was the fifth child of Stefano and Dominica Musso. He grew up on a ranch in Richmond, California with his seven siblings, and moved to Seattle at the age of 18 to work for his cousin at the Oberto Sausage Company. He was the company’s third employee. Johnny worked there doing a variety of jobs: from hand tying salami and sausage, to becoming the plant manager.

He served in World War II as a gun crewman in heavy artillery and was honorably discharged. After the war, he returned to Seattle to work for Oberto Sausage Company, where he eventually retired at the age of 92. He met his wife of 51 years, Fay Campagnaro Musso, in West Seattle and married her on January 7, 1950. He was a beloved father to their three children: Gina, Lisa, and Donald Musso. Johnny loved his family above all else and supported them in every way. He, Fay, and their cousins Art and Dorothy Oberto began the annual Oberto Family Reunion 50 years ago to bring the family together and celebrate another year.

Johnny also loved playing and watching sports. Although he enjoyed supporting his grandchildren in everything they did, he especially enjoyed rooting for them as an avid fan at their sporting events. He was a fixture at every meet, match, and game in which they participated.

He is survived by his three children, Gina Musso (Joe James), Lisa Musso McCluskey (the late Brian McCluskey), and Donald Musso; his six grandchildren, Micole Wyman (Kelly), Cia Nipper (Brandon), Nicholas McCluskey (Lee), Bianca, Vincent, and Anthony McCluskey; his great-granddaughter, Scarlett Wyman; and his sisters, Bette Piatanida and Emma Arrington.

He was preceded in death, by his wife, Fay; his brothers, Dominic (Marta) and Steve (Helene) Musso; his sisters, Lucy (John) Giacoletto, Lena Brown, and Marie Hilbauch; his brothers- and sisters-in-law Mario (Betty), and Aldo (Ida) Campagnaro and brother in laws Ambrose Piatanida and Royal Arrington.

A rosary service will be held at Holy Rosary Church at 10:15 AM on Friday, December 6, 2019, with a funeral mass to follow at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be made to Kennedy Catholic High School c/o the Development Office: 140 S. 140th St .Burien, WA 98168 or online at: https://www.kennedyhs.org/support-us/donate-today

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

As noted in the WSB Forums, the West Seattle community has lost a longtime member who was also a longtime participant in WSB’s online community. Here’s the remembrance her family is sharing:

She has had so many close calls, it is almost shocking to announce that our friend and neighbor Janet Elizabeth Frantz Seeley (known as JanS in comments and the forum), passed away on November 13, 2019.

Born in Danville, Virginia in 1947 to Dean and Anne Frantz, her family soon moved to Reading, PA where she grew up. As a young woman, she joined the Women’s Army Corps and served from 1973-1975. She left the Corps to start family life in West Seattle in 1976. She was free-spirited and incredibly hip – a fierce feminist who spoke her mind.

Jan became a mother to Jess Pearson (Seeley) in 1980 and from then on out, her daughter was her life. She shared her values of authenticity, respect, and independence.

Jan and Jess maintained a close relationship. Despite health challenges, she was a doting mother and loving grandmother to her grandson Ollie.

While she would have loved to be a full-time mom, relationship changes required her to find a way to support herself and her daughter. She started a massage practice in 1994. Her time working in the Army’s photo lab set her up to be an early adopter of technology. When she started her massage business she set up a website to advertise right away. She maintained her massage business until 2017.

She had a great sense of humor, loved poetry and delighted in beauty. She was a person of quick-wit, keen observations, and directness. Jan’s unique ability to maintain a non-judgmental attitude, show compassion, and relate to others was a gift to her family and friends. Those in power did not receive such grace – she shared strong opinions about injustice and corruption with passion.

Jan held dearly to life despite the many challenges life threw at her. Jan fought and survived serious health problems for the last 25 years – full of spirit and hope. It is with sadness we say goodbye and hope that her strong spirit can rest in peace and comfort.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister Carole Jones (Frantz). She is survived by her daughter Jess and grandson Ollie, and nieces and nephews Joshua, Thomas, Robin, and Alana.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, March 4, 2020, which would have been her 73rd birthday. Further details to follow closer to the day. Please email her daughter Jess at mlle.audreyhorne@gmail.com to be added to the list of invitees.

Poem:

If you hanker for
a zenith of felicity
on the bed of the Divine
begin by dusting off
the wings of wonder
on your local pillow
Lift your ineffable
out of the mundane
Aim for airborne
with the eye of the heart
as your sky pilot
and soar to glory
~ James Broughton ~

(Little Sermons of the Big Joy)

Family and friends will gather December 9th to remember Elizabeth J. “Betty” Novotny. Here’s the remembrance her family is sharing with the community:

Elizabeth J. Novotny
Feb. 24, 1914 – Nov. 26, 2019

Betty passed away just 3 months short of her 106th birthday.

She was born in Chicago and lived in that area until she retired and moved to the Northwest. She lived in West Seattle for 43 years. She is preceded in death by her son Bob Seger and husband Joe Novotny. She is survived by her daughter Penny Mulligan, 8 grandchildren, a bunch of great-grandkids, and several great-great-grandkids.

She and Joe loved to camp and travel and she could paint a mean mountain scene. She was loved by all and will be missed by all. Special thanks go to the Daystar care givers who took such good care of her for 5+ years.

Funeral service will be December 9th, 11:00 am, at the Yarington Funeral Home.

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

Family and friends will gather December 21st for Jake Rebar‘s memorial. Here’s the remembrance they are sharing with his community:

John V. “Call me Jake” Rebar

West Seattle lost one of their lifelong staples after 84 years. Jake Rebar went to be with the lord on the morning of November 8th, 2019 after passing from natural causes.

Jake was born October 11, 1935 in Great Falls, MT. He was raised in West Seattle and would always return after his work abroad as an accountant.

He was first and foremost a devout Catholic. He was a great friend to many, including his cherished grade-school friends which he still enjoyed having lunch with once a week. He had a terrific sense of humor and was an eloquent writer as anyone who read his holiday newsletter would know! He always lamented that “work” was just a four-letter word, that he tried it and didn’t like it, yet in retirement he maintained files and checklists as if he was operating a fortune 500 company. Some have even been known to say Jake was a frugal man or as a little birdy may have put it “cheap,” “cheap,” but never with his friends or charitable contributions.

He lived his best life, which afforded him a college degree in accounting from Seattle U, small business ownership with his brother Dick with the Tug Tavern and Jake’s Place, a family, the chance to marry the love of his life, travel, and most of all, friendship. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him, especially every dog in the neighborhoods where he pounded the pavement to whom he offered a friendly pat and a little treat while on his way to church or the Y.

A very special thanks to Jake’s dear friend Tim Law for providing the family several extra months we may not have had without his friendship.

Jake is preceded in death by his parents Victor and Vivian as well as his brothers Jim and Dick and sister Joyce. He is survived by his three sons, Sean (Tracie), James (Katy), and Rich (Jessica) as well as many nieces, nephews, and grandchildren.

Services will be held for Jake at Holy Rosary in West Seattle on Saturday, December 21st, 2019 at 10 a.m. There will be a reception afterward next door at the elementary school.

To share your condolences & fond memories of Jake with his Family & Friends for generations to come, please visit his Online Memorial at: www.emmickfunerals.com/notices/Jake-Rebar

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

Family and friends will gather November 8th to remember Charlotte J. Dominico. Here’s the remembrance her family is sharing with the community:

Charlotte Joan Dominico, born September 19th, 1938, passed away October 19th, 2019 in Seattle. Born in Minnesota and raised in West Seattle. Parents Garrett and Marion Ehlers.

Charlotte married her high-school sweetheart Larry Dominico after they both graduated from West Seattle High School in 1956. They were married for over 40 years before Larry passed away in 1998. Charlotte is survived by her children Larry Dominico, Dina Bittermann (Jim) and Mary Jo Werlech (Mike). Grandchildren Nic,(Karissa) Joseph Bittermann. Larry, Sam Dominico. Danny, Joey, and Michael Werlech. Great granddaughter Kinsley. She has two older brothers, Roland and Darrel Ehlers.

Charlotte fought hard but ultimately lost her battle with lung cancer.

Charlotte worked in the legal field for over 40 years, but what made her the happiest was spending time with her friends and family. She loved being with all her grand boys, cheering them on sporting events and attending anything that had to do with being around and spending time with them. She was so proud of all of her ‘kids.’ She loved to cook for her family and was a spectacular baker. Grandkids always knew where to find the cookies and desserts.

Charlotte will be remembered as a loving Mom, special grandmother, and friend. Her happiness and love will forever live in our hearts.

Donations can be made in her name to Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Funeral at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, Friday, November 8th at 2 pm. 7000 35th Avenue SW.

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

The family of Emily Malgren is sharing this remembrance with the community:

Laura (Emily) Malgren (1928-2019)

Emily Malgren passed on September 21, 2019. She was 90 years old.

Emily was born to Frank and Helen Dorrance in 1928. She grew up in Lower Queen Anne and graduated from Queen Anne High School.

She married Arthur Malgren in 1950. They moved to West Seattle in 1953, where she has lived ever since. They had had four sons, Eric, John, Bill, and Robert. Arthur passed away in 1980.

Emily lived her life as active as she could. Most of her activities had to do with children. She was a PTA officer before her children were old enough to be in school. She was always a room mother, was a den mother for son’s Cub Scout pack, and heavily involved with the PTA.

In her later years she was very active as a volunteer at the West Seattle Senior Center and at her church, St John the Baptist Episcopal Church.

Emily received a degree in education from Seattle University and was a teacher with the Head Start program, teaching at various schools including Horace Mann School and High Point School. She was also a teacher’s aide at Pike Place Market Daycare Center.

She loved children and was a professional in-home child care provider when she retired from the Market Daycare.

She celebrated diversity her whole life. She loved everybody and even if she didn’t know you, you were her friend. Her kind of love makes the world go round.

She is survived by her four sons Eric (Elizabeth), John (Michele), William, and Robert. She has 14 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband Arthur, brother Jack Dorrance, and daughter-in-law Darlene (Bill’s wife)

The world has lost a lot of love in her passing.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in her name to your favorite charity.

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

Family and friends will gather Friday to celebrate the life of Brian A. Willett. Here’s the remembrance they’re sharing with the community:

Brian A. Willett, age 43, born April 5, 1976 in Bozeman, MT, died suddenly June 24, 2019 in Seattle.

Brian’s formative years were spent in Montana, where he graduated from Bozeman HS in 1994. His first year of college was spent at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. He completed his studies at the University of Oregon, graduating in 1998 with a BA in Political Science. Brian was elected President of the Young Democrats while attending college. He served as an intern for Congressional Representative Ron Wyden, who is now Senator Wyden of Oregon.

Professionally, Brian’s career took hold in the medical field. Employers included Oregon Medical Labs, Harborview Medical Center, Merck, and finally BloodWorks NW (a blood bank in Seattle).

Brian had a lifelong love of travel and of maps. In his childhood, he was a regional champion in the geography bee. While still in grade school, Brian took a round-the-United States trip with his older sister Terry. The trip cemented his love of learning about people and places different than himself. That love led to several European trips as well as countless travels across the United States and Canada.

He had an extraordinary eye for photography and combined this skill with his passion for fine dining. The subsequent Facebook posts are legendary.

Brian’s gentle ability to call people back to their better selves on social media will be sorely missed. Facebook friends remained friends even after Brian let them know (always privately) that they had overstepped boundaries or were making themselves look foolish.

Brian is survived by his mother Bea and father Walt of Billings, MT; two sisters, Terry Wheeler of Sierra Vista, AZ, and Tammy Novakovich of Red Lodge, MT; and a brother, Paul of Billings, MT. Brian is also survived by his partner of five years, David Anderson of Seattle.

A memorial/celebration of life will be held Friday, September 27, 7 PM at Structure Cellars, 3849 1st Ave S, Seattle. Online donations, in lieu of flowers and in remembrance of Brian’s other loves (Blade and Sienna), can be made to the National Basenji Rescue – www.basenjirescue.org.

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

Family and friends will gather Saturday to celebrate the life of Jorge “Mike” Milliron. Here’s the remembrance they’re sharing with the community:

Jorge Michael Milliron, born January 24, 1958 in Seattle to Raynette and George Milliron.

He preferred to go by Mike, attended Madison Middle School and West Seattle High School. When he was younger, he loved to spend time on Alki Beach and work on cars.

Mike passed away peacefully at home on September 9, 2019 after a 3 year battle with Emphysema and COPD.

Mike is survived by his wife Maureen, daughters Ambrosia and Candice, and son-in-law Micheal.

The family is having a memorial service on September 21, 2019 at 11 am; location is Luna Park/Old Anchor on Alki. If you knew Mike, join them in celebrating his life.

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

Family and friends will gather next Saturday (September 21st) to celebrate the life of Henry J. Haba. Here’s the story of how his life unfolded:

Henry Joseph Haba passed away peacefully August 12, 2019 at Providence Mount St. Vincent, where he stayed for the past four months.

Born May 6, 1923, the ninth of 15 children to Martin and Agnes Haba in Carrington, ND. His parents were born in Poland. Survived by daughter, Charlene, West Seattle. Brother, Louis Martin (Lee) and sister, Lorraine Bell (all in California). Also survived by over 40 nieces and nephews, 55+ great and 20+ great, great nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by wife Clara in 2017, son Gene in 2014, his parents, and 12 siblings.

The Haba family migrated to Grandview, WA in 1936. Farming and taking care of the animals started at 4 am. They attended a one-room school house.

Faking his age, Henry joined the US Army in 1940. Corporal Haba spend three years in the jungles of Panama. He then attended Paratrooper School and was sent to Germany. He attended trade school in Yakima to become a carpenter. Henry married Clara Fitterer of Yakima on July 3, 1948. They were five months short of 69 wonderful years of marriage. They traveled by car to Anchorage, AK to work. They moved back to Yakima, where he built a duplex and house. The family moved to Seattle in 1958, where he built a house on Gatewood Hill. In 1962 they moved to AZ. Rented in Phoenix, then built a duplex in Tempe. Moved back to Seattle a year later. Rented an apartment by Green Lake, then purchased the brick Tudor in West Seattle. He then built three more houses before downsizing to a condo.

Henry was a retired 71-year member of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters (LU 30 Renton, previously LU 131 Seattle). He attended monthly meetings and always had some tool to give away to the apprentices. He worked many construction jobs through the years. Working for the Austin Co., SCI and John Sellen Construction. Some projects included Hanford, the Floating Bridge, NW Airlines Flight Kitchen, Tacoma News Tribune, UW Hall Health, Olympic Hotel, Colman Ferry Terminal, and before retiring, the Metro Tunnel.

In 1999, Henry was one of over 200,000 people marching to protest the World Trade Organization in downtown Seattle. His leisure was spent vacationing in the US, Mexico and abroad. He tried his hand at skin diving, Weekends were spent at Vasa Park with the ski boat, ice-skating and snow skiing. He mostly enjoyed his totally equipped workshop (never was a car in the garage)! Some creations were birdhouses, writing pens and carved walking canes.

He was able to go on the Honor Flight to Washington, DC and see the war memorials. His guardian for this was Mike Musterman, who became his best friend. All the guys met each morning for coffee, talk, and laughter at the Morgan St. McDonald’s.

Henry was a very practical man who expected you to do the job right. He was very grounded with staying power. Always thought “HIS” jokes were the funniest! You could call him “a collector” of anything and everything. Traveling the alleys and neighborhood wasn’t unusual. Knew a little about a lot of subjects. Read the newspaper from front to back every day.

Thank you to all the people who visited Henry in his last days of a very full life. Also to the care given to him by staff at Mt. St. Vincent.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 21 st from 4-7pm at the White Center Eagles. A military funeral be held at a later date at Tahoma Cemetery (Clara’s burial included).

For more information please go to Dignity at this link

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

Family and friends will gather next Saturday to celebrate the life of Mead H. Logan and are sharing this remembrance with the community:

Mead Hale Logan
May 20, 1939 – August 8, 2019

Mead, a lifelong West Seattle resident, passed peacefully after a battle with cancer at home on August 8, 2019.

Born to Alfred Mead Logan and Lera Alleda Hale on May 20, 1939, Mead was known as little Meady, or Jr, only because his father disliked his own first name. He attended Jefferson Elementary, Madison Junior High, West Seattle High School, and the University of Washington. He served in the U.S. Army where he was based in Alaska and upon his honorable discharge returned to West Seattle where he met and married his wife of 50 years, Janis.

Janis and Mead raised their family of 3 children in West Seattle and were known for their many parties and patriotically painting their home inside and out in red, white and blue to honor the bicentennial.

Mead spent his career as an appliance repairman, as well as serving as a manufacturer’s rep for industrial machine tools. Throughout his 50+-year career, he repaired many appliances in West Seattle homes.

Janis predeceased Mead in 2017; however, Mead is survived by his 3 children, Kevin, Derek (Pam), Erin (Mike); 5 grandchildren, Nicole, Johanna, Aidan, Alessandre, and Annabel; 2 great-grandchildren, R.J. and Logan.

Please join us for memories and good times as we celebrate Mead on Saturday, August 24th at the American Legion Hall in West Seattle from 11 am – 1 pm. In lieu of flowers Mead would prefer that you spend extra time with your loved ones and friends.

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

Family and friends will gather August 25th to celebrate the life of Dorothy Wright:

Dorothy Gloria Wright passed away at the age of 93 at Harborview Hospital, on July 28, after being struck by a car in a crosswalk at Jefferson Square on July 26.

Dorothy was born at home in Fairdale Township, North Dakota in 1925, the youngest of 6 children. After graduation from Crookston MN High School, she moved to Chicago to live with her oldest sister and family. She worked as a model at Sears. She met her future husband , Everett, who just happened to be her sister’s brother-in-law, at Christmas, while he was on leave from the Army Air Corp. They wrote for 8 months, became engaged on his next leave, and married two days later (technically their 4th date). They were married for 72 years, until his passing in 2016.

In 1956, they left Chicago with their children Wendy and Brad and moved to West Seattle, where several family members had relocated. They lived in their West Seattle house for the rest of their lives.

Dorothy was a homemaker, active in the PTA, Cub Scouts, Camp Fire Girls, and bowling leagues. When the kids were out of grade school, she went back to work at Sears on First and Lander in the catalog sales department, until her retirement in 1987.

During their married life, Dorothy and Everett went on 28 cruises (Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico, the Caribbean and the Panama Canal.) They loved to dance together at White Center Eagles, play the slots, and meet other travelers.

Mom loved playing Copper Dropper slot machines at the Tulalip and Emerald Queen Casinos, having a rum and coke at 5 pm, her water aerobics class at the West Seattle YMCA, happy hour at Salty’s with her 90+-year-old friends, chicken fingers and fries at the Luna Park Café and her family.

Dorothy leaves behind her daughter, Wendy (Michael) Hobson, son Brad (Colette) Wright, and her grandsons, Aaron & Shawn Hobson and Carson Wright. She also leaves her sister Violet Denison and many nieces and nephews in Seattle and across the USA.

A Celebration of Life party will be held on Sunday, August 25, 1-4 pm at the American Legion Hall at 37th and Alaska in West Seattle. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the West Seattle Family YMCA, 3622 SW Snoqualmie St., Seattle 98126.

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

Family and friends have said goodbye to Mary V. Andersen. Here’s the remembrance that is being shared with her community:

Mary Virginia Andersen
May 3, 1942- August 1, 2019

Mary Virginia Andersen was born May 3rd, 1942, to Muriel and Donald Powell in Aberdeen, WA. She is survived by one sister, Anne Reed, son Tyler Worley, daughter Kim [Mike] Bartlett and three grandsons, Brian Bartlett, Christopher Worley and Roscoe Worley. She was preceded in death by her son Adam Worley.

Mary attended Beauty School at an early age in Hoquiam, WA. She loved living and working in West Seattle during her entire life. She had many good friends aiding her needs through her long battle with cancer. We will all miss her, but as she phrased, “I will see you on the other side.”

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to: Emerald City Kitty Harbor, 3422 Harbor Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98126

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

Family and friends will gather August 17th to remember Darlene J. Thornton. Here’s the remembrance being shared with the community:

Darlene Janet Thornton “Ooma” passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on July 3rd, in Seattle with “Sweet Caroline” playing in the background.

She is survived by her father David E. Edwards Sr., husband of 63 years Jerry Sr., sons Jerry Jr., Joel, Jon, Jim, and brother David Edwards Jr. and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Preceded in death by her loving son Jeff and mother Jeanne Edwards.

Darlene was born in West Seattle January 8, 1938. She graduated from West Seattle High School and attended University of Washington. She married Jerry Sr. in the Fauntleroy Congregational Church November 29, 1957 and soon after moved to Tukwila and started their family.

Ooma also leaves 12 grandchildren: Jaimie, Justin, Chelsey, James, Tyler, Jordan, Erika, Jessica, Kylie, Eamon, Nyreese, and Cormac, along with 3 greatgrandchildren Falina, Katilynn, and Joslynn.

Darlene’s life was strongly rooted in raising her boys. First as a preschool teacher and then as a lunch lady at Cascade View Elementary School. After her boys were grown, she went on to a rewarding 30-year career at Larry’s Market in Tukwila working alongside her boys and making lifelong friends.

Darlene was an avid sports fan and spent countless nights and weekends attending her boys’ baseball and football games at Foster High School. She and her husband loved University of Washington baseball and football games and have held season tickets since 1959. Darlene loved the Seattle Mariners. As season ticket holders, Darlene and her husband traveled the country to attend games, including spring training in Peoria, Arizona. Darlene missed only one Seattle Mariners spring training since Ken Griffey Junior was a rookie in 1989. Darlene enjoyed the excitement of a new baseball season and reuniting with friends that had relocated to the Phoenix area. She was at home at any baseball park and loved the history and memories made anywhere. from GE Field rooting on the Tukwila Little League to singing along with “Sweet Caroline” in Fenway Park.

Matriarch and Rock of the Thornton family, she was beloved by her family and friends and will be greatly missed.

Whenever you see a ladybug; it’s her smiling at you!

Private inurnment at Riverton Crest Cemetery.

A Celebration of Life will be held August 17th 1:30 – 3:00 at T-Mobile Park.

Please share your memories of Darlene and condolences with her Family by visiting her Tribute Page. Care & Arrangements entrusted to Emmick Family Funeral Home & Cremation.

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

Friends and family will gather at Alki Beach on Sunday to remember Dominick Viscardi. Here’s the announcement and remembrance:

Dominick Joseph Viscardi, Jr. passed away on January 26, 2019, in Seattle, where he resided since 1973, after a brief and brave battle with cancer.

Dom was born on June 13, 1950 in Moses Ludington Hospital, Ticonderoga, New York. He attended Weedsville School and was the salutatorian of the first graduating class at St. Mary’s School, Class of 1964. Dom was an altar boy from shortly after he made his first communion to the 8th grade and was a member of Boy Scouts Troop 72, attaining the rank of Life Scout. He graduated from Cranwell Prepatory School, where he was a member of the football and lacrosse teams, in 1968, and from Saint Michael’s College in 1972.

Dom worked as a stock broker in several prominent brokerage firms until he retired to open his own personal fitness company. Dom has helped so many people recover from injuries and regain their lives. He had just retired from his second career when he became ill.

Dom was devoted, generous and kind man to his family and friends throughout his life.

He is greatly missed. Please help us celebrate the life of our dear friend!

Sunday, July 21st, from 10 AM – 1 PM, at Alki Beach Park

Please bring a potluck item, and a memory to share.

We will be at the covered picnic area west of the bathhouse, across from Cactus on Alki.

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

The family of Al Finch is sharing this remembrance with the community:

Alfred (Al) Walter Finch
1933-2019

Alfred Walter Finch, affectionately known as “Al,” was surrounded by his loving family as he passed peacefully on June 11, 2019.

The first born of three children to Alfred and Ann Finch of Seattle, Al began entrepreneurship at a young age: clerking with his mother in their West Seattle market, managing a paper route, and buying and selling refurbished automobiles.

Al graduated from West Seattle High School and continued his education at the University of Washington, where he earned a BS in mechanical engineering. In addition to his studies, Al rowed Husky crew and joined the United States Air Force ROTC. Following graduation, Al proudly served in the Air Force while stationed in Oklahoma, Texas, and Ohio, serving as a Second Lieutenant piloting the KC 97 for the Strategic Air Command and retiring as a Captain.

Al was a devoted husband and happily married to Elisabeth for 60 years. As residents of Mercer Island from 1969 until present, they worked and raised their two children, Libby and Stephanie. Al, a Seattle businessman and real estate investor, owned and managed Emerald City Door for 17 years. Al continued his passion for flying: as a member of NW Seaplane Pilots Association, actively flying in the Pacific NW and Canada, and commuting between Seattle and their second home in Scottsdale, Arizona. Al’s happiest times were spent with Elisabeth and friends: traveling, fishing, skiing, boating, playing bridge, and golfing as members of the Overlake Golf and Country Club in Medina, Washington and the Boulders Golf Club in Scottsdale, Arizona.

He is survived by his beloved wife Elisabeth, his loving daughters, Libby (Steve) Miller and Stephanie St Mary, sisters Diane (Jim) Creighton and Geraldine Finch, and grandchildren Maggie, Charlie, Will, and Lizzie. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to StolenYouth www.stolenyouth.org.

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

Family and friends will gather on July 6th to remember Koji Tada. Here’s the remembrance his family is sharing with the community:

Koji W. Tada
January 1, 1922 – April 12, 2019

Koji William Tada was born on January 1, 1922 – the fifth child of Genjiro and Yoshi Tada in Seattle. He attended Green Lake Elementary, and later West Seattle High School, where he graduated in 1940.

The Tada family was among many Japanese Americans forced into internment camps from the West Coast and Alaska to Minidoka – near Hunt, Idaho. He was drafted into the U.S. Army in the summer of 1944, joining his two older brothers, who were already serving in Europe. As part of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, Koji earned the rank of Technical Sergeant and was decorated with the Bronze Star.

After completing Army occupation duty in Italy in 1947, Koji returned to Seattle — and like many returning Nisei, experienced overt racial discrimination. He worked briefly as a mechanic at Boeing, served again in the U.S. Army reserve during the Korean War, and was discharged as a Master Sergeant. He entered the University of Washington in 1952 and earned his M.B.A. in 1956. He was a life member of the Nisei Veterans Committee and a talented league bowler at Imperial Lanes in Seattle. Golf was his favorite hobby, however – West Seattle and Jefferson municipal golf courses being among his “best greens.”

He met and married Yohko Kohsaka in 1960, settling first on Beacon Hill, and later in West Seattle. They had two sons, Richard and Steven. Koji was an accountant for FarWest Garments and later Breezin’ Sportswear until his retirement. He was a volunteer at the West Seattle Senior Center, where he enjoyed helping fellow retirees prepare their tax returns.

Koji was a quiet man, and gave much thought before speaking or acting. Brave, modest, and compassionate are the words that best describe his personality and moral fortitude. He cared unfailingly for his wife until his passing, despite both being in declining health. He is survived by his wife Yohko and his son Steven.

A memorial service will be held at Faith Bible Church, 128 18th Ave., Seattle, on Saturday, July 6, 2019 at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Faith Bible Church.

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

Family and friends will gather Saturday to remember James L. Knittel. Here’s the remembrance being shared with the community:

To the glory of God and Celebration of Life – James Lee Knittel

James Lee Knittel was born on May 10, 1941, to Erhardt and Hulda Knittel in Newton, Kansas. He was baptized as an infant at Zion Evangelical Church. When Jim was 2 years old, his parents and older brother, Rene, moved to Tacoma, where his father accepted a call to teach at Concordia Lutheran School. Jim attended Concordia Lutheran grade school through the 8th grade. He spent 3 years at Stadium High School and his senior year at Wilson High School and was a part of the first graduating class at the new school.

Jim always knew that he would follow his Dad into the teaching ministry. He attended Concordia College in Portland, Oregon for 2 years and then 2 years at Seward, Nebraska Teachers College. Spending several summers back at Seward, he earned his Master’s Degree in Education. Jim received his call from Hope Lutheran Church and School in Seattle, and was installed in September 1963 as a teacher and athletic director.

On June 15th, 1974, Jim married the love of his life, Jeralee Henke, at Hope Lutheran Church. They were married 3 days short of 45 years. The great joys of his life were his children, Timothy, Elizabeth, David, and grandson James. Rarely missing a game, play or concert, he enjoyed all their activities. Jim spent many years playing baseball, several years with Hope’s team and several with city leagues. He pitched 3 no-hitters, which is a very hard feat to accomplish in modified fastpitch softball. Golf was another sport he enjoyed playing with his dad, brother, uncle, and later with Tim and David. Jim loved music and would help Elizabeth practice her voice lessons, plunking notes out on the piano while she sang. He went to almost every soccer and basketball game to watch grandson James play, still calling out to him “Follow through” on his free throws.

For many years, life revolved around school, church, sports, and music. Jim enjoyed his teaching in the classroom, especially math. In 1971 he was called to be Principal (20 years) but continued to teach several math classes so he could stay active in the classroom. He wore many hats including choir director, athletic director, and basketball coach. Jim taught at Hope for 38 years; he and Jeralee were also Charter members of Seattle Lutheran High School, helping get the high school off the ground. After retiring from Hope, Jim continued to teach math at Seattle Lutheran for a number of years. He spent several years on the board of Directors of the Northwest District Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod.

Above all Jim was a man of firm faith and trust in God and professed Jesus as Lord and Savior. He loved his family and would do anything for them. He passed away from complications of kidney failure on June 12th, 2019 at home, surrounded by his loving family.

Jim is survived by his wife Jeralee, his three children Timothy, Elizabeth, and David, and grandson James.

Sister Barbara Gapol (Joe) and Brother Rene Knittel (Vi)

Safe in the Arms of Jesus

A Memorial service of Thanksgiving & Remembrance will be held Saturday, June 29th, at 1:00 pm at Hope Lutheran Church, 4456 42nd Ave SW. Memorials may be sent to Hope Lutheran Church for Hope Lutheran School’s athletic or music program.

Please share condolences with the Knittel Family and share memories of Jim on the tribute page.

Care & Arrangements Entrusted to Emmick Family Funeral Home – West Seattle

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

A vigil tomorrow and Memorial Mass on Thursday are planned for Ronald H. Maes. Here’s the remembrance being shared with the community:

Ronald Henry Maes
Born in Seattle to George Maes & Clara VanCoulie.

Ron worked in the grocery business for forty years, and loved bowling and working in his yard. His real love was doing things with his family. His Grandchildren kept him very busy in his retirement. It was filled with sports of all kinds. He and his wife of 58 years travelled extensively.

He is survived by his wife, Carole, their children, Caroline (Danny) Curtis, Terrie (Keith) Guthrie, Debbie (Mike) Dephelps, Randy (Eilisa) Maes, & Lori (Brian) Bress, seventeen Grandchildren, two Great-grandchildren, and two Granddaughters-in-law, his sister, Georgette, and many nieces & nephews.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents George & Clara, his twin brother Don, and infant daughter Tammy.

Memorial Services in his loving memory will be held at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church of West Seattle.

A Vigil will be held on Wednesday, June 26, 2019 at 7 pm, and a Memorial Mass on Thursday, June 27, 2019 at 11 am.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy (PPMA) or Our Lady of Guadalupe Church.

To share your fond memories of Ron with his Family & Friends forever, please visit his Tribute Wall.

Care & Arrangements entrusted to Emmick Family Funeral Home of West Seattle.

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

Family and friends will gather July 13th to remember Jim Granquist. Here’s the remembrance his family is sharing with the community:

James Joseph Granquist was born on August 1st, 1945, as WWII was ending.

He was the 3rd of 6 children, born to Joe & Mildred Granquist. It was a fun-loving, rollicking bunch: Lee, Sally, Jim, Mary, Bob, & Gary.

Jim was very athletic. He grew up mainly in West Seattle, where he would swim every day at Colman Pool & play tennis at Lincoln Park. He also loved baseball & football.

Despite a devastating brain hemorrhage just before his 16th birthday, he managed to graduate on time from West Seattle High School in 1963. He went on to get a teaching degree at the University of Puget Sound and a Master’s Degree in Social Work at the University of Washington.

Despite his left-side paralysis, Jim didn’t let it slow him down. He worked as a Psychiatric Social Worker at Rainier School in Buckley, WA for 35 years, where he was well liked by staff & parents.

Jim married Wanda in 1968, and they celebrated their 50th anniversary just last year. Jim loved being a Dad to his two sons, Doug and Joe. And delighted in his two daughters-in-law, Megan and Keri. He was blessed with four sweet grandsons: Tyler, Elliott, William, & Ruston.

Jim loved many things, but especially: his sports teams, Scrabble, flashlights, Fig Newtons, the Auburn Senior Center, playing dummy rummy, traveling with our camping buddies, his family, his friends, & his church.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held on Saturday, July 13th at 3 pm at Family of Grace Lutheran Church in Auburn, WA. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Auburn Senior Center.

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

Family and friends will gather Saturday to remember John A. Hanson, and are sharing this remembrance now:

John Alan Hanson
October 5, 1944 – May 31, 2019

John passed away on May 31, 2019 with family by his side.

John was born and raised in West Seattle to Fred and Muriel Hanson, one of 5 brothers and only 1 beloved sister. He grew up on Seola Beach eating geoduck burgers, gathering driftwood for fires in their home, and swimming in the Sound. His parents would drop John and his brothers off at Denny Creek for two weeks each summer with nothing but small packs and their wits to keep themselves alive and entertained.

John loved sports. He loved to play sports, he loved to watch sports, and he loved to coach sports. John particularly loved fastpitch softball, for which he was inducted into the Greater Seattle Fastpitch Hall of Fame in June of 2000. One of his favorite trips to play ball was to Alaska, where he enjoyed all of the daylight that the land of the midnight sun had to offer. Countless young men of the community will fondly remember John as a coach of the West Seattle High School baseball team. When he was no longer coaching, he could be found offering advice from the stands.

John married Sandy on August 13, 1965. Except for a few years when they lived on Snoqualmie Pass, their nearly 54-year marriage was spent in West Seattle.

The years on Snoqualmie Pass were memorable ones, as John owned and operated his own tow truck company. Back in West Seattle, John drove trucks for Bloch Steel, where he was a proud Teamster.
West Seattle is also where John and Sandy raised their two sons, Steve and Jason.

John was always up for a really good laugh. Cracking jokes, listening to stories, or holding court, John spent much of his time with friends and family enjoying a laugh.

John relished the role of grandpa or “Bumpa” as his three granddaughters called him and was the honorary neighborhood grandpa, stocking frozen treats in the garage freezer where kids could get to them.

John loved to play card games or dice games. The last several months of his life, you could find him and Sandy at the dining table enjoying a game of Yahtzee.

John was fiercely loyal to family and friends, stood up for justice and fairness, and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

John is preceded in death by his parents and brother George. John is survived by his wife Sandy, sister Wynn, brothers Fred and Jim, sons Steve (Tammy) and Jason (Joanne) and three granddaughters Lindsay, Amber, Rheese.

A memorial service will be held at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 3050 California Avenue SW, on Saturday, June 15th at 1:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to West Seattle High School Baseball.

Care entrusted to Emmick Family Funeral Home of West Seattle.

To share your fond memories of John with his Family, please visit his Online Memorial Tribute Wall.

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

Family and friends will gather June 22nd to remember Richard “Rick” Oss. Here’s the remembrance that’s being shared with the community:

Richard “Rick” Oss passed away May 4, 2019 at age 68. Apart from his time in the Army, he was a lifelong West Seattleite, living in Arbor Heights, Alki, and his house of 40 years at the bottom of Charlestown Hill. Rick worked at Lucky Grocery while he attended Sealth HS (Class of ’68) and UW and also continued to work there summers when he became a teacher (The Bush School, St. James Academy).

After retiring from 20+ years as management at Boeing, Rick was blessed to return to his passion of teaching, this time with Seattle Public Schools and ultimately returning to Sealth to teach in the Special Education Department and The Bridge Program. Rick’s two passions were teaching and his faith (Hillcrest Pres, Westside Pres), which he brought into all aspects of his life. No matter the situation, Rick sought to demonstrate Christ’s grace, love, and acceptance to whomever he might meet and naturally fostered learning (especially encouraging others to ask questions and find answers). These traits were also the foundation of his life as a father, always supporting “his girls” through life’s many decisions and seasons.

Richard Oss is survived by his daughters and grandchildren (Lynnette Oss: Orin, Karis; Jen Secrest: Ezra, Georgette), his mother (Jo Oss), and his siblings (David Oss, Michele Malgren) and their families. Rick was preceded in death by his father (Richard “Dick” Oss).

To remember Rick, a casual Fellowship Hour to share memories will be held 9:30 AM-11:30 AM Saturday, June 22, at Lincoln Park Shelter #1. Please bring your memories of Rick, either written down or ready to share in his memorial book. Rick’s daughters will share briefly around 10 AM (others may speak as well). As there will be coffee and baked goods, please RSVP if possible. However, in the spirit of making it something Rick would actually want to attend, RSVP is absolutely not required.

In lieu of flowers, please consider giving in his name to www.treehouseforkids.org or donate basic school supplies directly to your local school.

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