A Celebration of Life is planned March 2 for longtime West Seattle physician Dr. Douglas Hom. Here’s the remembrance his family is sharing with the community:

Dr. Douglas Hom, age 69, passed away the morning of Friday, January 25, 2019. He suffered a heart attack while skiing and, after a week-long struggle at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, died peacefully, surrounded by family.

Doug was born July 26, 1949, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Dr. Leong “Lee” and Syen “Sunny” Hom. He was the eldest of four boys and, although competition was stiff, the most adventuresome troublemaker of the lot.

During his youth in small town Battle Lake, Minnesota, he played golf, baseball, and basketball; participated in band, chorus, and debate; and did other “normal” things that would surprise no one who knew him, like spontaneous multi-day canoe adventures and making sure nobody picked on his little brothers. Smart and opinionated even then, he graduated as high school valedictorian. The caption for his high school senior photo was, “Even his explanations needed explaining.” This sentiment followed him throughout his entire life.

He graduated from the University of Minnesota Medical School in 1974, moved to Glens Falls, New York, and established a medical private practice. In 1985, he moved to Seattle and worked for the Providence Hospital medical group until 2000 when he and his brother, Dr. Denis Hom, opened a medical practice together in West Seattle. During this time, he also treated patients at several adult family care facilities. Drawing on the legacy set by his father, Doug took his vocation to heart. His patients were treated with the same compassion and genuine – if sometimes tough – love as his family.

Doug was a devoted father and grandfather, thoughtful mentor, and loyal friend. He had an active imagination and insatiable curiosity. He dove into life with a passion that few could match. He truly loved people: his family and friends, his patients, and people he’d just meet passing through. He felt they ultimately made his life richer and more interesting. In turn, he touched and made a positive impact on many lives.

Doug was preceded in death by his parents, Lee and Sunny Hom. He is survived by his brothers, Denis Hom (Mei-Lan), James Hom (Siu-Lin), Curtis Hom (Vivian); his children, Tanya Farmer (Justin), Ainsley Bar Telem (Elan), Kyra-lin Hom (Chad Richman); his grandchildren, Jocelyn Farmer, Lucas Farmer, Elijah Farmer; and many nieces and nephews.

Memorial donations may be made in his name to Tibbetts United Methodist Church, Operation Nightwatch, or Seattle’s Union Gospel Mission.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, March 2, 2019, at 1 pm in the sanctuary at Tibbetts United Methodist Church in West Seattle (3940 41st Ave. SW). It will be open to family, friends, and all who wish to pay their respects. Black/mourning attire is requested.

(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 are remembering longtime West Seattle business owner “Cal” Wiseman, and sharing this remembrance with the community:

Austin Calvin (“Cal”) Wiseman was born in Carthage, South Dakota on August 4, 1929 to parents Austin L. and Ellen Wiseman. Cal suddenly passed away February 13, 2019 surrounded by family members.

Cal graduated from Madison High School, where he met his high school sweetheart and future bride Joyce. Cal and Joyce (nee Johnson), married May 23, 1950 in Madison, South Dakota.

Cal served his country during the Korean Conflict in the South Dakota National Guard. First stationed at Camp Carson in Colorado, and later deployed “overseas” to Alaska.

Cal moved his growing family to Seattle in 1953. He then had an extensive career in Appliance Sales and Service as the founder and former owner of the still-operating Wiseman Appliance in West Seattle. He was a member of the Elks, and various West Seattle organizations. Cal was well-known and beloved throughout the West Seattle community. He was always quick to laugh and joke with everyone he met. He had a passion for family events, travel, personalized license plates, hats, fishing, spending time at the lake. Cal was always the first to help where he could. He loved his home on Alki.

Cal is survived by Joyce, his wife of 68 years, daughter Paula (Billy) Small of Renton, Sons: Daniel of Seattle, Stephen of Kirkland, Craig of Seattle, Scott of Seattle and Mark of Des Moines; brother Arlin Wiseman of Federal Way, and sister Donna Smith of Glenwood, IA. In addition, Cal is survived by nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces and nephews. Cal will be dearly missed by all of his friends and loved ones.

A private interment will follow at a later date at Tahoma National Cemetery.

To leave an online condolence to the family, please (go here).

In lieu of sending flowers, remembrance donations may be sent to St. Bernadette Parish, Elks Lodge of Burien, or Seattle Children’s Hospital, and would be most appreciated by the family.

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

That’s a video tribute produced by Northwest Kidney Centers in memory of Bill Peckham, a West Seattle resident known for his advocacy on behalf of dialysis patients – himself included. With his Celebration of Life planned one week from tomorrow, we received this remembrance to share with the community:

Bill passed away on January 18, 2019, at the far-too-young age of 55, surrounded by his friends. He died at Swedish Cherry Hill from complications relating to sepsis. Having survived a heart attack, several strokes, and staph infection in November, Bill was never able to fully fight off the blood infection.

Bill was born August 30, 1963, in Evanston, Illinois, to James and Susan Peckham. He joined his proud brothers Charlie and Jimmy and lived his pre-college years at the family home in Wilmette, Illinois.

Bill graduated from Central Washington University with a degree in accounting and marketing. After graduation, he was ready to take on the world – both in business and in travel. But a diagnosis of kidney failure in his early 20s radically changed the course of his life. Bill received a transplanted kidney from his brother, Jimmy. However, the transplanted kidney soon failed and Bill knew it was only a matter of time before he needed to start dialysis.

Before going on dialysis, however, Bill travelled for several months around the world, thinking that this would be his only opportunity to do so. That travel adventure was cut short when he contracted dysentery while trekking in Nepal.

For many years, Bill thought kidney disease was the end of his life as he knew it. But with the incredible support of the staff at Northwest Kidney Centers (NKC), Bill learned to take charge of his own life. He soon learned to dialyze at home, where he did so successfully for nearly 20 years. In total, Bill lived well on dialysis for 28 years – a remarkable achievement.

Even with his kidney disease, Bill lived an incredibly full life. He worked full time making signs for Triumph Expo and Events and continued to travel, visiting 34 countries and dialyzing in 23 of them. He considered dialysis a back-door look into other cultures.

Bill inherited his love of travel. John Ledyard, Bill’s ancestor and namesake (middle name Ledyard), sailed with Captain Cook and attempted to traverse the USSR, among other great travel adventures. His grandparents also were inveterate travelers, having sailed around the world twice for months at a time, leaving delightful diaries of their voyages. Bill also traveled often with his family growing up.

In addition to his love of travel, Bill had a passion for dogs. One of his college dogmates was Tyler, an Australian Shepherd. Smitten by the breed, all of Bill’s dogs were Aussies: Brainy, followed by Cairny, and finally Banjo.

Bill was also a fierce advocate for patient care. He was an active volunteer for NKC and served on their Board for many years, including a term as Board Chair. Many know Bill through his advocacy work at NKC, from his blog “Dialysis from the Sharp End of the Needle,” and from his lobbying efforts in Washington State and Washington, DC.

Bill was pre-deceased by his parents, Jim and Sue Peckham, and his brother, Jimmy Peckham. He is survived by his brother Charlie, his dog Banjo, and many friends.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held Sunday, February 24, at 2:00 at Northwest Kidney Centers – Seattle Kidney Center – 548 15th Ave (corner of Cherry and 15th). All are welcome.

Remembrance donations can be made to Northwest Kidney Centers, PO Box 3035, Seattle WA 98114-9900 – or via www.nwkidney.org/give.

(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 are invited to an April celebration of the life of Dennis A. Simonsen. Here is the remembrance being shared with the community:

In loving memory of Dennis A. Simonsen, 76, recently of Tomah, Wisconsin and longtime resident of West Seattle, who died on Tuesday, February 5, 2019, surrounded by his family, at Mayo Clinic Health System in La Crosse, Wisconsin.

Dennis was born on August 16, 1942 to Alvin and Helen (Lingman) Simonsen in Redmond, Oregon. He married Donna (Leiendecker) on September 5, 1970 in Juneau, Alaska, and together they have two children, Daphney Newtson of West Seattle and Devon Simonsen, also of West Seattle. He was also blessed with two grandchildren, Zachary Newtson of Peoria, Illinois, and McKenzy Newtson of West Seattle.

Dennis was a man of deep faith with a huge heart that cared for all those around him. He was a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe parish, the Knights of Columbus in both Washington and Wisconsin, and involved in many volunteer programs, including Friend to Friend, Hospice, ICYE (international youth exchange) Catholic Community Services (Foster care), and helping with Donna’s in-home day care. His outside work included purser for the Alaska Marine Highway, travel agent here in Seattle, and in recent years, medical assisting and kidney dialysis tech.

A prayer service was held on Friday, February 8, 2019 in Tomah, Wisconsin at the Sonnenburg Family Funeral Home. In addition, a celebration of his life will be held on April 27, 2019 at 1 pm at Our Lady of Guadalupe church, and all that knew him are invited to attend.

Dennis is also survived by his sister, Carol (Simonsen) James of Camp Douglas, Wisconsin, as well as many nephews, nieces, great-nephews and great-nieces.

His presence in our lives will be missed, but we are assured that his love for his family and the fond memories we shared will continue on within us.

(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 Thursday (January 24) to celebrate the life of Jeffrey James Morrison. Here’s the remembrance being shared with the community:

Jeffrey James Morrison

Jeff passed away unexpectedly January 4, 2019, leaving us with broken hearts. Jeff was born May 11, 1993 in Seattle. He was preceded in death by his dad Jim Morrison, grandparents Len and Bea Whitlock, and his dogs Ani and Obi. He leaves behind his mom Sue, sisters Mary, Karen, and Kristen, his uncle Joe Whitlock, his aunt Laurie McCormick, and cousin John McCormick.

Jeff was raised in West Seattle and attended Holy Rosary school. He graduated from Kennedy High School in 2011 and went on to attend Bellevue College, earning an Associate degree in Digital Media Arts and a certificate in Advanced Videography. He worked at Target and for Best Made Videos while attending college and was just beginning his career search. Jeff had a passion for cameras and videography beginning at a young age, never allowing his mother to keep a camera of her own very long. He was an avid gamer, skateboarder, snowboarder, and loved all forms of comedy. His greatest joys were watching the Seattle Seahawks and Mariners, and spending time with his family, friends, and dogs.

Jeff’s presence will be forever missed, but the memory of him will remain in our hearts eternally. A funeral mass will be held on Thursday, January 24th, 10:00 am at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in West Seattle. You are invited to join us in this celebration of Jeff’s life, and are encouraged to wear your favorite Seahawks or Mariners gear.

(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 West Seattle native Paul F. Gaige is sharing this remembrance with the community:

Paul Fritz Gaige
05/28/1940 – 01/13/2019

Paul Fritz Gaige went to Heaven filled with light and joy to be in the presence of his Savior at 9 pm on Sunday 01/13/19 at Columbia Lutheran Home in Seattle.

A West Seattle native, Paul was a Boy Scout in 1952 and was included in a Time Capsule event at Alki Beach’s Statue of Liberty constructed as part of a national campaign to recognize the 40th anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America. This time capsule is to be opened in 2052.

Leaving West Seattle HS early, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1957 and served on the U.S.S. Frontier in Long Beach, CA, San Diego, CA, Australia, and Okinawa, Japan. He then relocated to San Jose, CA in 1962 and 10 years later became an Insurance Investigator in Hong Kong. Returning to Seattle in 1974, Paul had a career at Bethlehem Steel Mill in West Seattle and learned the art of Kung-Fu in Seattle’s Chinatown. After the Steel Mill closed down, he returned to college and became a Graduate of Seattle University with a degree in Criminal Justice while an active member and President of the Honors society. In the 1990s he began a new career as the Director of Social Services Program for DARP, a Drug, Alcohol and Recovery Program in Pioneer Square, Seattle changing the lives of thousands of people, assisting with housing and resources to stay safe and sober. The Seattle Union Gospel Mission’s “Ed G” remembers Paul Gaige’s work at DARP as a program that “broke most people’s hearts” as it “was for the ultimate broken men dying of alcoholism.”

His mother was Mrs. Glenavier Cady Marks Gaige (1917-1997), active in the West Seattle Eagles and Eastern Star and wife of Mr. Judson Melvin Gaige (1908-1976), former Boeing Supervisor who also enjoyed being active in the Eagles Club and Freemasons in the 1950s through 1970s.

He is survived by two sisters, Nancy Gaige Jones and Gail Gaige Cochran, a niece in Boston, a niece in Texas, a nephew in Germany, 5 children (Michael Gaige deceased in 1974) former wife Elena, 7 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you make an online donation to the Seattle Union Gospel Mission or volunteer at your local homeless shelter in his remembrance.

His son Nick Gaige would like to thank the the staff at Columbia Lutheran Home, Overlake Medical Center in Bellevue, ICU at Issaquah Swedish Hospital, Veterans Administration Seattle, VA RN Jacqueline Hurd, VA Dr. Simha Reddy, VA Social Worker Kim Brown, Providence Hospice team RN Pamela Simpkin and Social Worker Chisako Wells, who took great care of him in his final season of life.

Special thanks to Pastor Jon Smith of City Church/ Churchome Seattle, Traci Jones with Champions Centre Tacoma/Bellevue, Law Offices of Jenny Ling PLLC, Carol with CookiesByCookies, Karl Kamakahi with LeafChews Seattle, Chaplain Mary Lindberg and Rev. Earl Grout of Saint Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral in Seattle.

Funeral services will be held at Miramar National Cemetery in San Diego.

(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 invite the community to celebrate the life of Scott Rasmussen one week from Saturday:

There will be a Celebration of Life for our wonderful friend Scott Rasmussen on Saturday, January 26, 2019 at 3:00 PM at the Chelan Café in West Seattle….one of his favorite spots!

We ask that you bring your good memories of Scotty to share. Please also bring any favorite photos you have of Scotty, as well as a few copies in case others would like to have one. There will be food at the Celebration, as well as a “No Host” bar.

Come raise a toast to Scotty, the “Mayor of Alki,” and all the great memories he created for us!

Saturday, 1/26/19 @ 3:00 PM
Chelan Cafe
3527 Chelan Ave SW
206-932-7383

(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 one week from tomorrow to remember Patricia Earle-Sylvester. They’re sharing this remembrance with the community:

Patricia Earle-Sylvester (née Rutherford)

Our mother was born in Miami, Florida, near the Everglades, on 6/15/33. Her Creator gathered her into His arms in the loving presence of her large family in the comfort of her home on 1/5/19. She died from complications caused by H.U.S. (hemolytic uremic syndrome). She was an energetic, talented, loving, and elegant lady, though in her final years she suffered mightily from arthritic pain. Despite this, she always managed a beautiful smile for her children, grand- and great-grandchildren and her many in-laws and friends.

Mom’s life was never easy. She was married at an early age to her first husband David M. Earle, with whom she had six kids in nearly as many states and many moves: Ric, Robin (husband Marc), Randy who died in 2014 (Angela), Andrew (Joanne), Kelly (Gigi), Tony (Jennifer). Despite a very difficult marriage and not very much money to spare (mom often worked nights to plug holes in the budget), those children never lacked for the basics nor for love.

In the late ’60s, David secured a job at Boeing, which brought the family to Seattle where it settled down in West Seattle. As usual, mom worked various jobs (sometimes with the help of her kids) to supplement the family’s income. Unfortunately, the marriage could not be saved and David and mom divorced in the early ’70s.

While working at Boeing, mom met and married Vincent Sylvester, who was also a skilled landscaper. When mom was laid off during the massive late-’70s recession, she began working with Vincent, who had left Boeing as well, in their new landscaping business. Together with son Randy and often the other younger kids as well, mom continued the grass-cutting operations for many years, even after she and Vincent divorced in the mid-’90s.

In the final chapter of mom’s life she formed a loving and lasting relationship with partner Mileta Radunivic, who supported her in her darkest hours with love, humility, and compassion. Together they ran an adult home for dementia and Alzheimer’s patients for 20+ years, giving comfort to those most in need.

For our mother, the most important thing in her life was her relationships with those she loved. For these she was generous to a fault. She extended that love and support not only to her immediate family, but also to the families of her in-laws, and certainly to the children and grandchildren of Mileta. She had a special fondness for her many grand- and great grandchildren, and for Mileta’s three children and grandkids. In her final days, grandson Jesse was a particular guardian angel to her and he was rarely absent from her and Mileta’s side.

Besides her children, grand- and great-grandchildren, mom is survived by her siblings Kathy, Anne, Bill, and John.

There will be a non-secular service and celebration at Bonney-Watson Washington Memorial Park & Mortuary, Sunday, January 20, at 1:00.

We would also like to thank the expertise and kindness of the Swedish hospital and staff in mom’s final hours.

(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 (January 12th) to remember Louis (Eric) Erickson Jr. They are sharing this remembrance with the community:

It is with great sadness that the family of Louis (Eric) Erickson Jr. announces his unexpected and sudden passing on January 7, 2019 at 60 years old. For those of you fortunate enough to have known Eric, you knew a funny, sweet, and caring man who would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it and never asked for anything in return.

Eric was born and raised in West Seattle and was proud to say he lived there his entire life. He attended Alki Elementary, James Madison Junior High, and West Seattle High School (Class of ’77). During high school, he played varsity football and was a track star. It was also there that he met his high-school sweetheart, Deanna Tetrick.

Eric and Deanna were married shortly after high school and had two children together. Jennifer was born in ’79 and her little brother Louis III was born shortly after in ’83. They were the lights of his life and, in his words, the best things that ever happened to him. He was a dedicated family man even through tough times. He and Deanna eventually divorced and co-parented their children together. He coached his son’s basketball team, taught his daughter the proper way to maintain her car, and was over the moon when he became a grandfather.

In 1993, Eric was sent on a blind date that was set up by a co-worker. Sparks flew and there he met his soon-to-be wife, Heather. She was not only his wife, but his best friend and he would tell everyone he met how she had saved his life. He pursued a career as a medical assistant and loved what he did until physical disabilities left him unable to work. He soon took on the career as “professional grandpa” and manager of the Westview Plaza apartments.

Eric was a tried and true West Seattleite with strong ties to his community. He regularly frequented the West Seattle Thriftway to chat up the people at the deli or you would see him at The Bridge enjoying a burger. He would tell anyone who would listen about childhood escapades in Schmitz Park or how Alki has changed since he was a boy. He would bring his yellow roses as gifts to anyone who might want them. He had a sense of humor like no other and would even joke at his own expense just to bring a smile to anyone around him.

He is survived by his wife Heather, two children, Jennifer and Louis III (Kara), stepdaughter Rebecca (Ryan), and ten grandchildren (Nautica, Isaiah, Chrisheil, Jayloni, Kaylia, Tobin, Rex, Pearl, June, and Evelyn). He loved his kids and grandkids more than anything, and was having a great time being a grandpa, or “pop pop” as he was also called. He will be deeply missed.

Services will be held at Alki Congregational Church on January 12, 2019 from 12-2 pm. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Emerald City Pet Rescue/Kitty Harbor at emeraldcitypetrescue.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 next Saturday (January 12th) to remember James “Jim” Schultz. Here’s the announcement:

James was born April 4, 1950 in Seattle, passed away October 28, 2018.

He is survived by his wife Cindy, son Harley, stepsons John and Eric, Eric’s wife Robin, and grandchildren Justin, Draeven, Lydia, Charlotte, and Colton, as well as his brothers John, Norman and his wife Trina, Jeffrey, sister Virginia, nephews Anthony and Aaron, and niece Ashley. He will be greatly missed by His family and friends.

There is a celebration of life on January 12th, 2019, at the Eagles in White Center, 10452 15th Ave. SW, from 2 pm to 6 pm.

(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 in April to celebrate the life of Christopher R. Clark. Right now, they are sharing this remembrance with the community:

Christopher Ryan Clark, 36, of Seattle, passed away into the loving arms of the Lord, on December 28th, 2018, while his mother (Linda Clark) and father (James Clark) held his hands. With a fighting determination, he battled testicular cancer at the age of 12 years old and colon cancer in 2015.

Chris was born on February 7, 1982 to James R. Clark and Linda S. Clark. He was a life-long West Seattle resident and hobbyist who worked for the West Seattle Thriftway for 10 years in the Deli Department.

Chris had a witty sense of humor and a resilient spirit of perseverance, loved being generous and was always willing to help others. He was a master Lego Builder and was active in the BrickCon conventions, which are held in Seattle yearly. Photographing wildlife, birds, and landscapes was another of his hobbies which he enjoyed very much, especially on the many road trips and vacations he pursued with his family as well as with his friends, across the US and abroad.

Chris is survived by his mother Linda, father James, sister Amy Michelle Clark Fowler, and brother-in-law Justin Fowler. He also has many other family members and friends near and far who greatly loved him.

There will be a Celebration of Life at Trinity West Seattle Church (7551 35th Ave SW) on April 6, 2019 from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm (family, coworkers, and friends are welcome to attend). More info will be announced in the near future (here).

The Clark family would especially like to thank the West Seattle Thriftway for being so accommodating to Chris while he was in treatments and a great place to work. In lieu of flowers, please donate in Christopher R. Clark’s name to Make A Wish Washington (here).

Share memories of Chris on the tribute page at emmickfunerals.com.

(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 Friday, January 4th, in memory of Catherine Mary Scott. Here’s the remembrance being shared with the community:

Cathy passed away peacefully on December 14, 2018 following medical complications from a fall in Seattle.

Cathy was the third child born to Angela and Bernard McIntyre in Detroit, Michigan on May 3, 1934. She joined older sisters, Mary and Joan, and was followed by four more siblings: John, Ed, Bob, and Angie. They all enjoyed summers in Maidstone, Ontario, Canada at their grandparents’ farm, where cousins joined them for fun and games. Following high school, Cathy’s work history in office support included Armstrong Cork in Detroit and Weaver Trucking, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research, Sacred Heart Church, all in Seattle.

In 1962 Cathy left Detroit for Seattle, and quickly made friends among members of the Chancellor Club, a thriving club for single Catholics. In 1963 the club entered a float in the annual Seafair parade. Cathy worked on the float, hand-making tissue paper flowers to decorate the float and carrying the flag preceding the float in the parade – the float was a trophy winner!

In 1977 Cathy married Jay Scott and became stepmother to his seven children, Jerry (d), Mary, Chris, Mike, Theresa, Tim and Pete. Cathy’s parents, her husband Jay, and siblings John, Joan, Bob all predeceased her. Cathy is survived by six stepchildren, siblings Mary Coakley (Ed, d), Ed McIntyre (Beverly), and Angie Wall (Randy), sister in law, Diana McIntyre (Bob, d)m and numerous nieces and nephews. “Aunt Cathy” will be deeply missed by all, including her extended family of nieces, nephews, cousinsm and their children.

A memorial Mass celebrating Cathy’s life will be held on Friday, January 4, 2019, 1:00 p.m., Pigott Chapel at Providence Mount St. Vincent in West Seattle, with reception following.

Memorial donations may be made to the Providence Mount St. Vincent Foundation, 4831 35th Avenue SW, Seattle, WA 98126 or to St. Ambrose Parish, 15020 Hampton Road, Grosse Pointe Park, MI 48230

Please Share Memories of Cathy on the tribute page at www.emmickfuneralhome.com.

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 Saturday in memory of Christine Bruno. Here’s the remembrance being shared with the community:

Please join us for a celebration of the life of West Seattle resident Christine Bruno.

Saturday, December 15th from 1-4 pm at the:
Center for Urban Horticulture/NHS Hall
3501 NE 41st St.

Christine Bruno passed away at home after a long illness on October 31, 2018. She was born October 17, 1968 in New Orleans, LA. Christine was preceded in death by her parents, Aurora and Joseph Bruno, and she is survived by her loving husband Brett and daughter Aurora. She is missed and loved by many great friends and family.

Christine graduated from Louisiana State University before moving to Seattle. She cared dearly about the environment and worked diligently in her position as a shoreline inspector with the City of Seattle to help protect Seattle’s waterways from damage.

(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 Thursday (December 13) in memory of Karlene Lacher. Here’s the remembrance they are sharing with the community:

KARLENE LACHER (SIFFERMAN)

On December 2, 2018 our dear, sweet, beautiful Mom passed away peacefully with all of her children by her side. Mom was born October 22nd, 1934 to Karl and Iris Sifferman.

Karlene grew up on Angle Lake until the 5th grade. The family then moved to West Seattle, where she attended Holy Rosary School, graduating in 1952.

Karlene began her career in the late ’60s at West Seattle General Hospital. In 1973 she went to work for Dr. Wilbur J. Springer until his retirement in 2000. After Dr. Springer retired, Karlene stayed on at Swedish West Seattle Clinic for one more year and then retired herself in 2001. Not satisfied with being retired for long, Mom returned to work for West Seattle Dermatology, where she stayed for almost two years. She then joined the staff at West Seattle Foot and Ankle, where she worked until December 2015 at the age of 81.

Mom loved her home, gardening, traveling, working, and most of all her children and grandchildren.

No matter what was going on in her life or ours, we always knew Mom loved us.
Mom, you will forever be in our hearts.

Karlene was preceded in death by her parents and her sister Susan Cash. She is survived by her children Jean (Michael), Jolene, Steve, Jill (Mark), and Joe (Joy); five grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, her sister Jean Freitas, and her brother Nick Sifferman, all of Seattle.

The family would like to give a heartfelt thanks to Kathleen, Terri, and Adrienne for their love, compassion and care they gave to Mom. We would also like to thank Providence Hospice of Seattle for the care and respect they gave to Mom in her final months and the support given to our family.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Thursday, December 13th, 2018, 10:00 AM, with reception following at:
Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 4139 42nd Ave SW.

Remembrances may be made to:
Providence Hospice of Seattle Foundation, 2811 S. 102nd Street, Suite 220, Tukwila, WA 98168
or the charity of your choice.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Emmick Family Funeral Services 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 December 16th to remember Katherine (Katie) Overmars. Here’s the remembrance they’re sharing with the community:

KATHERINE FAY BIRKLAND OVERMARS (KATIE)

Born Feb. 18, 1966, in Seattle, died Dec. 1 in Browns Point, Tacoma, at age 52.

Katie grew up in West Seattle and attended Lafayette Elementary, Mercer Middle School and graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1984. She worked at American Seafoods in Seattle until she married and had children. She spent the rest of her life in Browns Point.

She was active in the Browns Point community, loved skiing, fishing, water sports and soaking up the sun. She was a wonderful cook and was the No. 1 fan at her daughter’s volleyball games and her son’s baseball games.

Katie is survived by her husband Bob, daughter Jane and son Evan, all of Browns Point, mother Merry Nye of Seattle, father Ted Birkland of Las Vegas, Nev., sisters Elizabeth (Brad) Sneed of Las Vegas, Nev., Annie Taylor of La Conner, Wash., and Kirsta Birkland of Scottsdale, Ariz., dear aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

We all will miss her love for us, her friendliness and her generous spirit.

A funeral will be held Sunday, Dec. 16 at 1 p.m. at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church in Browns Point (6800 East Side Dr. N.E., Tacoma), followed by a gathering at the nearby Browns Point Improvement Club directly after the service.

(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 December 15 in memory of KayLynn Mayhew. Here’s the remembrance being shared with the community:

KayLynn (Edgren) Mayhew was born April 23, 1961 in Colfax, Washington to Roger and June Edgren. She passed away November 24, 2018 at her home in Greenbank on Whidbey Island to her heavenly eternal home. She was 57 years old. Memorial services will be held at Hillside Evangelical Free Church, Greenbank, Washington on Saturday, December 15, 2018 at 3 PM.

KayLynn spent her childhood in Colfax, grew up on Prune Orchard Road, and worked at the Elk Drug Store, her family’s pharmacy. She graduated from Colfax High School in 1979. KayLynn continued her education at Washington State University, graduating with a degree in pharmacy. She met her sweetheart, Bill Mayhew, during her college years at WSU and they married soon after she graduated in 1984. They were married 34 happy years.

KayLynn and Bill lived and worked in West Seattle for 32 years. They bought property on Whidbey Island and spent 10 years building their retirement home and gardens. One of KayLynn’s many joys was her involvement in the design and building of their home on Whidbey Island. Upon their retirements in 2015 they moved to the island full-time.

KayLynn was a lady with many talents. She enjoyed gardening, cooking, sewing, quilting, photography, reading, camping and hiking. She cherished her many adventures with Bill and times spent with her family, friends, and church community. She was always willing to help with weddings, parties, and church events with her many creative talents. KayLynn was a kind, gracious, patient, gentle and loving person to all that knew her.

KayLynn is survived by her husband, Bill Mayhew; sister Jana (Jeff) Daily, of Coeur d’Alene, ID, Jenna and Hayden; sister Shari (Darin) Griff of Hayden, ID, Shayla and Dylan; sister-in-law Sally (Jim) Pillers; sister-in-law Suzanne (Dean) Walker; sister-in-law Julie (Sid) Sever; brother-in-law John (Bev) Mayhew; 17 nieces and nephews, and 20 grandnieces and grandnephews. KayLynn was preceded in death by her parents, Roger and June Edgren, and nephew Daniel Walker.

Memorial contributions may be made to:
Ryan’s House for Youth on Whidbey Island, 19777 SR 20, Coupeville, WA 98239, www.ryanshouseforyouth.org
Young Life Whidbey Island, PO Box 1075, Freeland, WA 98249-1075, www.whidbey.younglife.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 Friday (November 30th) in memory of June R. Essig. Here’s the remembrance they are sharing with the community:

On Thursday, November 15th, June Ruth (Marshall) Essig, loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and aunt, passed away at the age of 83. June was a resident of West Seattle.

June will be lovingly remembered by her husband of 64 years, Ronald Essig, and their children, Michael (Kay) Essig, Patrick (Julie) Essig, Kevin Essig, Laurie (Terry) Fitzpatrick, Craig Essig (preceded in death), and Carrianne (Dale) Smith; grandchildren, Luci (Brock) Spencer, Alli (Jake) Nord, Kati Essig (preceded in death), Zachery (Anna) Essig, Joshua (Emily) Essig, Jennifer (Nick) Curmi, Lia Fitzpatrick, McKenna Smith, Devin Smith, and Dalton (Ally) Smith; great-grandchildren, Caroline, Amelia, Mikie, Ava, Colton, Hudson, Henry, Marshall, and Palmer; sister Marilyn Carlson; and several nieces and nephews.

June was born on May 26, 1935 in Syracuse, NY to Rosemary and Willard Marshall. When June was 2, the family moved to Peoria, Illinois, where she enjoyed growing up close to her grandparents, many cousins, aunts, and uncles. June met and fell in love with Ron in high school and married in 1954. June, a talented artist, earned a scholarship to the Chicago Art Institute. While raising her family of 6 children, June worked creating fashion illustrations for department stores and local newspapers in Peoria, IL. Her work in oil, pencil and pastel paintings were highly regarded and were sold throughout the US. Later, June became a graphic designer and art director for Flying Color Graphics in Pontiac and Chicago, IL.

In retirement, June followed her first love, caring for infants, at the First Baptist Day Care in Gulf Shores, AL. The past 8 years, June was a daily presence in the lives of her daughter, son-in-law, and granddaughter. She was loved and gave love to so many. She will be remembered for her incredible artistic talent, warmth, kindness and love for life.

Services for June will be held at Holy Rosary Catholic Church on Friday, November 30th at 11 am, Fr. Oakland to preside. Reception will follow in Holy Rosary School Hall.

In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made in June’s name to Holy Rosary School, West Seattle

We will always carry your memory in our hearts, June, Junie, Mom, Gram, Mimi

(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 this Sunday to remember Cole Luffman, 26:

Nicholas “Cole” Luffman passed away on November 12, 2018.

Lifelong resident of (Alki) West Seattle and graduate of West Seattle High School.

A Celebration of Life and memorial service will be held on Sunday, November 25th, 2018 at the Alki Beach Bathhouse from 12 pm to 4 pm.

Please share memories of Cole on the guestbook at emmickfunerals.com.

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 are sharing this remembrance of Joyce Coleman:

R. Joyce Coleman, age 91, passed away in the presence of family on Friday, November 9, 2018, just short of her 92nd birthday. She was born November 15, 1926, in Yakima, to Delbert McClain and Blanche Oliver.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Frank and sons Robert and John. She is survived by her son Frank Jr., daughters-in-law Lena and Sue, grandsons Andrew and Ben, sister Marlene, brothers Bob and Don, and a great-grandson and great-granddaughter.

She was a resident of Seattle for over 78 years after moving from Yakima and lived a majority of her life in West Seattle, which she considered her home. She attended and was a member of West Side Presbyterian Church for over 65 years.

Joyce was a telephone operator prior to meeting Frank and getting married. After Frank retired, she went back to work at Seafirst Bank in the Mortgage Banking Department, and Frank drove her to work or the bus stop every day up until she retired. It was time they shared and enjoyed especially at Christmas so they could shop at Frederick and Nelsons, Nordstrom, and Macy’s.

She will be interred in a private gathering at Mt. Tahoma National Cemetery, where she will join her beloved Frank. A gathering will occur after the holidays for family and friends to share and get together in her honor.

Special Thanks to the staff and nurses at Providence Hospice and Home Care of Snohomish County for their loving care and assistance in her final days. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to this group of wonderful people and facilities.

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

Gatherings are planned next Saturday (November 24) in memory of Martin Anthony Picinich. Here’s the remembrance his family is sharing with the community:

On the afternoon of November 10th, 2018, at the age of 87, Martin left to join his Lord and Savior, due to several medical complications. He was surrounded by loving family and friends.

Martin was born on the Island of Sansego, Italy, on October 27th, 1931. He was the 2nd child and only son of Dominick and Giovanna.

Martin came to America as a young man from Sansego and soon met his future wife, Bernita, at a local dance. They were drawn to each other from that moment and were happily married and the best of friends for 64 years.

Martin was an avid, lifelong golfer. At one point, he accomplished an astonishing 5 holes-in-one during a 16-month period. Martin was also a beloved barber and hair stylist who owned his own shop in West Seattle for 40 years, and for whom his loyal clientele traveled far and wide.

As a member of Holy Rosary Parish in West Seattle and Our Lady of the Lake in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, he served the Lord, his community, family, and friends, and lived a life of faith alongside his wife and best friend, Bernita.

Martin is survived by his wife Bernita of Lake Havasu City, Arizona; daughters Theresa Samek of West Seattle and Barbara Ramey of Fairfax, Virginia; four granddaughters; and three great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Rina Tarabochia of West Seattle and Antoinette Mattessich and Faye Bruno of New York, as well as a large extended family.

Rosary, Memorial and Reception to be held at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, West Seattle
Saturday, November 24, 2018
9:30 a.m. – Rosary
10:00 a.m. – Memorial
Reception following

(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 memorial service is planned Monday for Nicola A. Höhn. Here’s the remembrance being shared with the community:

Nicola Adlyn (Hart) Höhn, born on March 11, 1933 in Kingston, Jamaica, to Catherine Rose Elliott and Samuel Lester Hart, passed away at age 85 years on September 11, 2018 in Seattle.

She studied French at the University of Lausanne, Switzerland and then attended the Mayfair Secretarial College, London. Nicola was educated at Upper Chine School for Girls, Isle of Wight, UK for high school, after attending St. Hilda’s School, in Brown’s Town, Jamaica, near the birthplace of Bob Marley.

After immigrating to the US from Jamaica at age 47, she worked at Rainier Mortgage Bank as a Flood Specialist. After retirement, she worked as a companion to seniors, and most notably as a nanny to an entire litter of thoroughbred Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Nicola is survived by her son, Andreas; daughters, Gabriela and Christina; and brother, Stephen Hart. Nicola loved reading British crime dramas and watching European films; took classes in Geology and American Literature; enjoyed flowers and gardening; delighted in visiting far-flung family and friends in Jamaica, Australia, Canada, England, and Japan; and passed on her love of arts and crafts to her children. She was an animal lover, especially of the feline variety, and raised her children in a household filled with dogs, guppies, budgies, and guinea pigs. Most of all she was an aficionado of precise vocabulary and a stickler for good grammar.

The Memorial Service will be held on Monday, November 19, 2018 and officiated by Rev. Kevin Carr from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Alki Congregational United Church, 6115 SW Hinds Street. Friends and family are all invited.

Share memories of Nicola at www.emmickfunerals.com

Professional services provided by Emmick Family Funeral Services, 3243 California Ave SW, Seattle, (206) 935-2207.

(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 are remembering Alicia T. Watson, and her sister is sharing this with the community:

Alicia T. Watson (Wilhite)
January 7, 1964 – November 1, 2018

Alicia T. Watson (Wilhite) suddenly passed after long complications with health issues at her home in Seattle. Alicia is survived by her loving son Felix, 3 grandchildren Sophia, Felix IV and Vivian, her sister Linda, and her beloved Chihuahua Lovie.

Alicia was born in Alaska but spent most of her life in Seattle, the city she loved most. She was an Associate of the Sisters of Providence and enjoyed working the last few years at Taco Time. She enjoyed taking her Lovie for long walks and doting over her beautiful grandchildren and proudly watching them at their sporting events.

When we were young, you were my whole life, my world. We had our own way of communicating with each other that no one else could understand. This is how I remember you.

When we were young we had never ending energy to play in our own imaginary world. Building houses and castles and sometimes spaceships with our building blocks and Lincoln Logs. This is how I remember you.

When we were young we even found adventures in other people’s basements. Like playing hide and seek in Carmen’s basement or cleaning the many piles of sawdust in Mr. Cornelius’ basement workshop or getting scared trying to guess what was behind Cecilia’s locked basement door and running out screaming over our own imaginations. This is how I remember you.

When we were young we could entertain ourselves for hours with our sing-song hand slapping games or getting the giggles, really bad, at the worst times like in restaurants or worse at church. This is how I remember you.

When we were young you were my whole life, my world. I looked up to you in awe at how you knew so much and how sure you were of everything. And you took me by the hand and showed me the way and taught me so much. This is how I will always remember you.

Your sister Linda

You are much loved.

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

(ADDED OCTOBER 27: Memorial-service information)

Rodger E. Clement is being remembered by family and friends, including friend Marty Kiley, who wrote this remembrance:

This is my sweet friend, Rodger E. Clement. He died in his home October 17th. I was fortunate enough to have met him in Grief Group after his lovely wife, Mary, passed on and my husband decided to end our 45-year marriage.

He was in the Navy, worked at Boeing, was a devout Catholic and a very fine man. He was also in the Knights of Columbus. More than that he was my dear, dear friend. We went on cruises together and had a fabulous time in New York last year.

What I will miss the most about Rodger are the texts he sent me each and every morning laying out his day. I did the same, and in fact, he was the only person who knew where I was at all times. At night we exchanged texts again talking about how our day had gone. It was something special I could always count on without a missed text in all the years I knew him, which were not enough. Through his sorrow, he sang silly songs to me and told me dumb jokes. He held my hand when I needed it and we spent many hours together just talking.

He was a master wood turner but would never admit the total beauty of his work. Instead of selling his works of art, he would carefully stack them up one by one on a bookshelf in the basement. He spent a great deal of his talent contributing to his church by making a huge cross for the gym, benches, and things for the inside of the church as well. His beautiful art is scattered all over Our Lady of Guadalupe.

He and Mary were passionate about Square Dancing. He called the dances and she made the beautiful clothes. He had trouble adjusting to food after she died of breast cancer. She was a great cook and he struggled to eat much after she was gone. He always had his car radio tuned to the Fifties station. If you asked him how he was he would say he was full of the three V’s … Vigor, Vim, and Vitality. Sometimes he would just say ornery and laugh and give me a sweet smile and a little kiss.
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He loved his home, his view of the sound, morning coffee with friends, time with his friend, Kathy and her dog, Lance. He was most proud of his family. His daughter, Diane, who only lived a Ferry Boat ride away and his son Mike, who lived in California. He knew every single one of his neighbors and loved having lunch at the Pub once or twice a week. He was a big Outlander Fan and read all the books before starting to watch the series with Kathy. He also was a huge AVATAR fan! He owned the DVD and watched it several times. He was a perfect gentleman at all times and told me more than once that his father told him to NEVER, EVER disrespect a woman.

Goodbye, my sweet friend, I will always, always miss you. You will be forever on my mind and in my heart. Tell Mary I said hello. She’s waited long enough for you. I love you, Rodger.

ADDED SATURDAY: Marty says Mr. Clement’s memorial service will be at Saint Elizabeth’s Church, 1005 SW 152nd Street in Burien, November 17 at 10 am. Please contact her for food head count:
martysuzannekiley3108 (at) comcast (dot) net

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