Services are planned Tuesday for Clement John “Chelly” Chelminiak, 96. Here’s the remembrance his family is sharing with the community:

Clement John Chelminiak – July 17, 1920 to March 17, 2017

C.J. Chelminiak lived a remarkably American life. He loved his family, his community, and he had a deep faith in God.

Born in South Bend, Indiana, he ran outside to watch the Spirit of St. Louis fly over. That inspired a young man and he worked 42 years at Boeing and was one of Joe Sutter’s “Incredibles” who designed the 747. He enjoyed the Boeing retirees lunch in Renton on Thursdays.

“Chelly” was all about family. He is survived by his children, Paul, Kathy, and John (Lynn Semler). There are four grandchildren, Mindy Simmons, Kelsy Ausland (Aaron), Morgan Tuff, and Megan Chelminiak, and a great-grandchild, William Ausland. His youngest sister Antoinette (Angie) Claxton survives him. He was preceded in death by his parents Leo and Theresa Chelminiak, brothers Ted and John, and sisters Gertrude McKiel and Sr. Helen Marie C.R.

The greatest commitment of his life was to his wife Gertrude Kroll, who left us much too soon. He wore his wedding ring through more than 30 years of grieving. And now, they are dancing a polka in heaven.

Dad and Mom moved to Seattle toward the end of World War II. They came with son Paul, and soon daughter Kathy arrived; son John arrived at West Seattle Hospital in 1952. They lived in apartments along California Ave. SW, not far from West Seattle High School. They made lifelong friends in those apartments – other families, most of whom worked at Boeing. We spent our major holidays together with those families for several decades.

In 1949, Dad built the family home on Genesee Hill. He remained in the home until days before his death. The neighborhood was his closest family. Growing up, we had water fights, picnics, parties, touch football games and incredible Fourth of July celebrations. Those families grew up and moved out and new families came. Dad made fast and lifelong friends with those families, and they became part of our celebrations. West Seattle was his true home.

His rock was Holy Rosary Church, and he used his engineering skills on many building projects there. His neighbors on Genesee Hill were often his best friends. He loved the mountains, golfing, and Hawaii.

Chelly followed traditions. One of those passed down to all family members is making Polish sausage. It is the heart of all family celebrations. Dad was the master mixer. All of us were the grinders and stuffers.

Services will be Tuesday, March 28, at Holy Rosary Church – West Seattle. Rosary will be at 9:45 a.m., Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. with a reception to follow. A donation to the American Cancer Society is requested in lieu of flowers. Aloha!!

(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 Celebration of Life for Clara J. Haba, 88, is planned in West Seattle next Saturday (March 25th). Here’s the remembrance her family is sharing:

Clara Josephine Haba passed away February 8, 2017, at Keiro Northwest in Seattle.

Born June 29, 1928, the second of six children, to Joseph and Eva Fitterer in New England, ND. The family moved to Yakima, WA, in 1946.

Clara met and married Henry J. Haba on July 3, 1948. Henry and Clara moved to Anchorage, AK, driving their brand-new 1949 Pontiac. She drove in the snow to get her driver’s license.

Clara had many jobs throughout her life. She worked as a waitress, cannery worker, Christmas help at the West Seattle Post Office, retouching photo negatives, modeling clothes from Louise North Apparel at Spencer’s Restaurant in West Seattle. Finally deciding on a career choice, she obtained her GED, then enrolled at the Cosmetology College in West Seattle, graduating at the top of her class in 1966. She then went to work for several major downtown Seattle department stores. Clara had many regular and loyal customers while working at Macy’s, where she retired after 20 years. Always wanting to keep busy, she then worked an additional nine years as the retired nuns’ beautician at the St. Joseph Residence (Providence Mt. St. Vincent). Her own hair seemed to grow upward and a hurricane couldn’t move it.

The family spent early years ice skating at the Civic Ice Arena. Clara was also a sunbather. Then came water-skiing in their 14’ ski boat, mostly at Lake Sammamish. The whole family also learned to snow ski and went on several ski vacations. The whole family in the same ski class should never happen. Only Clara could ski down a hill at such a slow speed and then crash into the lift line. They also traveled throughout the U.S., visiting 25 states and internationally covering 10 countries and seven times to Mexico.

The family lived in 10 different residences, half of which Henry built himself. This is where Clara used her talent for decorating and interior painting. You could come home and find the living room a different color. You would never forget what you look like as there was a mirror in every room. Entertaining, she loved and held many Halloween, Christmas and birthday parties. She was also an accomplished seamstress using her 1952 Singer, sewing everything from a boy’s suit, doll clothes, drapes, to her favorite, tableware and pillows. She was also obsessed with trim, lace and fringe. We all enjoyed listening to her play the piano (by ear). She was known for her stylish wardrobe, high heels and “can’t leave home without lipstick”; a store-bought item would soon be altered with a different look. She had the most beautiful smile.

Clara kept a clean and organized house, making all family meals and “sack” lunches, also famous for her homemade pies and cakes. They belonged to a dance group, which Clara loved. It being potluck, all demanded she bring her baked beans or cabbage rolls.

Clara is preceded in death by her parents (Joe & Eva), son (Eugene), brother (Louis), and sister (Matilda). She is survived by her husband of almost 69 years, Henry, and her daughter, Charlene, both of West Seattle. Also by sister (Viola) of Redmond, WA; brother (Frank & Sharon) of Yakima, WA; and brother (Donald & Pat) of Atlanta, GA; survived by over 30 nieces & nephews and great ones.

Donations in Clara’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. Special thanks to Keiro Northwest for the professional and gentle care given to Clara. A Celebration of Life will be held on March 25, 2017, from 2-6 pm at the West Seattle Eagles, 4426 California Ave SW, Seattle. Go to Dignity at forestlawnseattle.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 Saturday to remember Esther Bath on what would have been her 97th birthday. Here’s the remembrance being shared with the community:

ESTHER HANNAH BATH – March 18, 1920 – January 25, 2017

Esther Daniel, the youngest of six children, was born in Detroit, Michigan. Her parents, Edward and Christine Daniel, had farmed their land and built a beautiful home using timber from the property they cleared. The entire family worked hard together and enjoyed each other’s company. Esther’s mother had only been able to attend school for a short time, but would recite long poems while she and her daughter cooked.

Esther attended Cass Technical High School in Detroit during the 1930s. It provided a rigorous study of fashion illustration and design, which remained a special interest throughout Esther’s life. She then continued her education at Wayne State University, where she met Russ Bath, another Detroit native. Russ dropped out of medical school in hopes of becoming a naval aviator. While he went through flight training in Pensacola, Florida, Esther finished her Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree. They were married in June of 1942.

Since the country was at war, Russ was stationed first in Pensacola, then Kansas City, and finally San Francisco. Russ was gone for long periods of time, but Esther kept busy gardening, sewing, volunteering with the Red Cross, exploring her new surroundings, and by 1944, taking care of son David. In 1946, daughter Chris was born, and Russ moved the family to Seattle, where he flew for the newly formed West Coast Airlines. Over the next four years Mary and Rusty completed the family, which had made West Seattle its permanent home.

Raising four children was a full-time job, but Esther managed to participate in the Arboretum Foundation, the Catherine B. Baker Art Club, the West Seattle Garden Club, and other organizations. When Esther first arrived in Seattle, she was fascinated by the native plants of the Northwest, so different from those in Michigan. Rhododendrons were of special interest and she grew many from cuttings, using them in the landscape of her Fauntleroy home. Bonsai trees, both in pots and in the ground, were another way she expanded her agricultural interest. Once the children were grown, Russ and Esther had the opportunity to travel throughout the world, which they both thoroughly enjoyed.

Esther was a remarkable woman who stayed active until the end of her life. She was a devoted wife to Russ (deceased); a beloved Mother to David (deceased), Chris, Mary (Frank), and Russ (Christine); an adoring Grandma to Christine (Brian), Ken (Carol), Jeanette, and David (Carmen); and an extraordinary Great-Grandma to Braxas and Connor.

Remembrances may be sent to:
The Arboretum Foundation
2300 Arboretum Drive E
Seattle, WA 98112-2300

A time to remember Esther Bath will be Saturday, March 18th, from 12-2 pm at The Kenney, 7125 Fauntleroy Way 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)

A Funeral Mass for Carl Newman, 79, is planned next Tuesday at Our Lady of Guadalupe in West Seattle. Here’s the remembrance his family is sharing with the community:

Carl Newman passed away February 24, 2017 in Seattle.

Carl, born Nov. 11, 1937, was a West Seattle resident since the mid-1960s. Carl has been active in the Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in West Seattle all his life, where he worked bingo, bazaars and spaghetti dinners in service to his church. Carl coached youth baseball and soccer for many years as well. Carl worked at Boeing as an inspector for 38 years.

Carl was the kind of person that would schedule his free time around helping others. He would drive halfway across the state to help a friend or relative fix a car or build stairs for their home. While Carl was very giving in this regard, you could tell he actually enjoyed the work and helping people.

One of Carl’s great passions was finding old cars and turning them into hot rods. Carl was in his element taking relatives and friends cruising in one of his rebuilt hot rods. A perfect day for Carl might include cruising the loop in Renton with the top down and a stop at an old-fashioned burger joint to talk hot rods with admirers. His hot rods won awards and got a lot of attention, and he loved to discuss tactics for restoring old cars with the people he met.

He is preceded in death by his daughter Amy and is survived by his wife Rhoda and sons Bill, Bob, and David. Carl’s grandchildren are Rob, Tom, Alex, Heather, Jessica, Dee, Vanessa, and Jonathan. Carl also has 6 great-grandchildren.

A funeral mass will be held at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in West Seattle on Tuesday, March 14 at 11:00 am. Reception to follow. See more at: http://bit.do/carl-newman

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

Services are planned next week for Anna Lallas Rakus, 88. Here’s the remembrance her family is sharing with the community:

In life, as in her death, Anna Lallas Rakus, showed grace, dignity and fighting spirit, passing away peacefully in her West Seattle home on February 14, 2017.

Anna was born in Bellingham in 1928 to Greek immigrant parents, Tom and Estero Lallas. At the age of 10 while returning from a family trip to Greece, Anna and her 2 brothers John and George were orphaned when her parents were killed in an infamous train wreck. Anna and her brothers went to live with her mother’s brother, Gust Trames, and his wife Mary and their 3 children in Bellingham. By 16 she was working 3 jobs and helping to parent her brothers.

When Anna was 18, she was introduced to Gust Rakus, a fellow Greek from Everett. Swept off her feet, Anna and Gust were wed, moved to Seattle, and had 3 children. Their marriage was filled with everything Greek; loud, happy dinner parties with friends and family, the church, and her community. She was active with her husband in AHEPA/Daughters of Penelope, and served as Parish Council President of the Assumption Greek Church. She was a buyer for Doces Furniture and a top salesperson for Macy’s. Petite in stature, she had boundless energy and determination in every task she undertook, and could be a force to be reckoned with!

After 55 years of marriage, Gust passed away in 2004. Anna then filled her time attending to her gardens/orchids, volunteering for anything Greek that involved cooking, her family, and friends, and was always ready to go to lunch and shopping!

Anna is survived by her children, Diane, Tommy and Jamee (Dino). She will be remembered for her fierce perseverance in the face of adversity, her tenacious and feisty spirit, and warm hospitality. Although blurry in her last few years, she was up for any outing and was always ready to: “Let’s Go!” Our family thanks her many loving caregivers, and especially Chris Kelsey, with whom she formed a special bond.

Trisiagon Services will be held Tuesday, February 21st, at 7 pm, and funeral services Wednesday, February 22, at 11 am. Both will be held at the Greek Orthodox Church of the Assumption, 1803 13th Ave, Seattle.
Donations can be made in her name to the Gust Rakus Hellenic Studies Collection at the U of W.

(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 celebration of the life of Elizabeth LaVerne Thorneycroft is planned on March 4th. Here’s the remembrance her family is sharing with the community:

Elizabeth LaVerne Thorneycroft, 94, entered Heaven’s gates on Thursday, February 2, 2017 in West Seattle. Born January 2, 1923, in Ketchikan, Alaska, she was the daughter of the late Alden and Betty Harvie. LaVerne married the love of her life, Norman Henry Thorneycroft, in February 1941. They resided in West Seattle where she and Norman welcomed their daughter Marilyn Anne.

LaVerne’s life can be summarized in four words: Faith, Family, Friendship, and Philanthropy. LaVerne had a kind spirit and sharp wit. She was a faithful servant who shared her love for Christ through her actions. As a longtime member of Fairmount Church and Admiral Congregational Church in West Seattle, she delighted in women’s fellowship, made friends everywhere she went and had a huge heart for those less fortunate. Knitting hats for the homeless was part of her 30-year stewardship with the Seattle Milk Fund, all while making sure every member of her family had a warm hat of their own. When she wasn’t knitting, setting up church luncheons or playing pinochle, she enjoyed traveling the globe and spent some of her most memorable years at Hood Canal with her family.

As a wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, LaVerne was the matriarch of her family. Whether it was dinner shared around her kitchen table, or baking her classic banana cream pie and cookies, she loved cooking for her family. Fittingly so, as the rock of her family, LaVerne will lay to rest next to her husband at the Rock of Ages area at Washington Memorial Cemetery.

LaVerne is survived by her daughter Marilyn Anne Shoemaker, grandson Christopher Norman Shoemaker, granddaughter Keri Anne Patashnick (Lyle), and great-grandchildren, Seth Henry Patashnick and Emery Anne Patashnick. We will remember her smile, her warmth, her tenacity, her love of the Lord, family and friends. She made a difference in the lives of many.

A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, March 4, 2017, 11:30 am, at Admiral Congregational United Church in West Seattle. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Seattle Milk Fund at seattlemilkfund.org and the Senior Center of West Seattle at 206-932-4044 or online sc-ws.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 are mourning 22-year-old Shane McClellan. Here’s the remembrance that’s being shared with the community:

Beloved son and brother, Shane Andrew McClellan, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, January 14, 2017.

Born on January 21, 1994 in Seattle, Shane grew up in West Seattle and passed at his home in Auburn.

He is survived by his mother, Judy Pierce, his father, Tim McClellan, and his three older brothers, Tim McClellan, Tom McClellan, and Sean McClellan.

He left us too soon and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Private memorial service will be held in West Seattle on February 4, 2017.

(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 to remember Charles W. Henke at 1 pm next Saturday (February 4th) at Hope Lutheran Church in West Seattle. Here’s the remembrance they’re sharing with the community:

Charles William Henke was born on December 9, 1926, in Gary, Indiana. He was the son of Charles and Martha Henke. He had one sister, Ruth J. Little of Aspen, Colorado, who died in March 2014.

Charles’ father, Charles Sr., was Captain of the Gary Fire Department. As a small boy, little Charles loved to spend time at the fire station sliding down the fire pole. If the fire alarm rang when Charles was in the station, it was his job to open the large doors for the fire trucks to exit. Sometimes his father would let him ride on the fire truck and ring the bell.

Charles and his family were members of St. John’s Lutheran Church, where he also attended school through eighth grade.

During his high school years at Tolleston High, Charles played drums in the band and was Lt. Colonel of the ROTC, in charge of the whole school. In his senior year, he would go to school in the morning, run home to eat a quick lunch, then take the trolley to the steel mill and work 8 hours, unloading an entire box car of bricks for the steel mill settling pond and furnaces.(hard, hot work). He earned $6.36 a day which was good money for that time.

Immediately following graduation, at the age of 17, Charles enlisted in the U. S. Navy and served in the Pacific where he remained until his father died in 1947. He was proud to serve his country.

Charles met his wife, Henrietta Ellen Little of West Seattle, in Chicago in 1949 at the wedding of his sister, Ruth, and Henrietta’s brother, William. Charles had seen a picture of Henrietta before the wedding and said that she was the girl he was going to marry. Charles went back home to Gary, Indiana where he began exchanging letters with Henrietta. Charles proposed to Henrietta in a letter and sent a ring to her father to give to her on Christmas. They were married June 10, 1950, by Pastor Emil Jaech at First Lutheran Church, because the new Hope Lutheran Church building was still under construction.

After the wedding, Charles and Henrietta went back to Gary and, on September 13, 1951, they had their first son, Charles Edward. When little Charles (Chuck) was 11 months old, Charles and Henrietta moved back to her home in West Seattle, where he bought her a brand new house on Gatewood Hill, overlooking Puget Sound with a stunning view of the Olympic Mountains. Two more children joined their family, Jeralee Ellen (Knittel) born December 17, 1953, and Steven Martin two years later, May 16, 1956. Charles and Henrietta lived and raised their family in this same home for 59 of the 61 years of their marriage and created many precious memories there.

On March 31, 1977, Charles and Henrietta had their first grandson, Timothy James Knittel. Over the next few years they were blessed with four more grandchildren, Elizabeth Ellen Knittel (Guzman) Sherilyn Joy Henke (Sweeney), Bethany Rose Henke (Rich), and David James Knittel. Several years later, two other grandchildren were added to the family, William and Molly Henke. Charles and Henrietta loved their grandchildren and made each one them feel special and accepted.

In addition to seven grandchildren, God blessed Charles and Henrietta with six great grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Emma, and Makenna Sweeney; James Guzman; and Izabella and Levi Rich. Right up to the end of his life, Grandpa Charles truly enjoyed having his great grandchildren visit. They brought him much delight!

Charles worked primarily in underground construction, building up manholes, catch basins, and laying water, storm, and sewer lines. He was involved in numerous projects in the Puget Sound area including Sandpoint Naval Base, Fort Lewis, Boeing Field, and Kent, Renton, and Everett Boeing Facilities, as well as, the 2nd runway at SeaTac Airport. He also worked at many other locations around the state, Snoqualmie Pass, Aberdeen, and Ellensburg to name a few. He was a member of local 440 Street Pavers and Tunnel Workers for over 50 years.

Charles and Henrietta served at Hope Lutheran Church from the time they moved to West Seattle. They and several other couples had a vision for a Lutheran parochial school which they thought was important for the spiritual and academic development of the children of Hope. Charles was a member of the Christian Education Board, Church Council, Personnel, and a longtime trustee. He taught Sunday school for many years and helped in any capacity where he was needed. He served the church and others throughout his long life.

Charles and Henrietta loved the Northwest and frequently traveled to the Olympic Peninsula to visit their son, Chuck and his family in the Elwha Valley. They enjoyed the mountains, and walking the ocean beaches of Washington and Oregon. They also took several cruises to Alaska and the Caribbean.

Charles remained active throughout his life and frequently helped his sons and daughter on various home projects-including running a backhoe, repairing water lines, unplugging sewers, and pouring and finishing concrete with his sons until a heart condition began to slow him down 2 years ago. He was a lifelong learner and was always willing to share his practical experiences with others.

Charles’ first priority was always his family. This was clearly demonstrated in his loving devotion to Henrietta during the last several years of her life. As she became weaker and less able to care for herself, because of a series of strokes and other medical issues, he cared for her every need with patience and tenderness. He expressed to his family what a great joy it was to be able to keep her at home and look after her through her final days.

Faithful service sums up Charles’ life. He loved his Lord. He loved his wife and family. He loved serving in his church. Charles humbly and willingly helped anyone who needed it. Everyone who knew him appreciated him and recognized his servant’s heart. We can imagine His Lord saying to him, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Please share memories and condolences on the guestbook at emmickfunerals.com. Funeral 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)

The family of Amy Paton is sharing this remembrance:

Amy E Paton
1/14/1921 – 1/20/2017

Amy E Paton, age 96, passed away on January 20, 2017 in Seattle.

She is survived by her granddaughters Lisa Gondola, Lynne Corgatelli, and grandson James Layton. She is also survived by five great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

Amy lived a long, full and healthy life and will be greatly missed. A formal memorial service is not planned. In celebration of Amy’s life and memory, please consider a donation to the American Heart Association.

Share memories @ 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)

Kaarisa Karlten, originally known as Keitheen Nichols, has died at 57, and family and friends will gather soon in two cities to remember her. Here’s the remembrance her family is sharing:

Born Keitheen Ione Nichols on January 28, 1959, the middle child of five to Keith and Thomasine Nichols of Seattle, she passed away on January 12, 2017, battling breast cancer. Memorial celebrations will be held on January 28th at 3pm at Fauntleroy Church in West Seattle, and in LaGrande, Oregon on February 4th at 3 pm at LaGrande’s Marketplace, 1101 Washington Avenue.

A West Seattle High School graduate, Keitheen went on to study Interior Design at Bellevue College. She used her education in many creative endeavors from interior design, painting, drawing and murals.

Keitheen also attended Peninsula College in Port Angeles, Washington, and further studied Entrepreneurship, Business, and Multimedia. She lent her artistic talents to creating a backdrop and set for a local television production of “Storytime,” featuring local storytellers. And she put her education to use forming a business, Cottageware, putting her drawings and designs to work on aprons and kitchen dishtowels, selling them at local shops.

At 50 years old, she decided to change her legal name to Kaarisa Karlten, tired of her name being mispronounced her whole life.

She moved to LaGrande, Oregon in 2003, where she channeled her artistic talents with her husband, Wyatt Williams in their custom metal work business, Williams and Karlten Design and Fabrication. Their work can be seen among many businesses in LaGrande and surrounding areas.

Kaarisa believed in always leaving a place better than you found it, and her life is a legacy of that belief, whether you knew her for years, briefly, online or in person. She volunteered in many community events, even Delridge Day (photo at right) to help her daughter’s community. She was a vibrant soul who believed in living life to the fullest as your truest self.

She is survived by her husband Wyatt Williams; three children, Holli Margell, Hance Edwards, Hannah Jane Winn; two stepchildren: Garrett Williams and Kasey Lathrop; three grandchildren; her brothers Stephen Nichols and Michael Nichols; and sister Heidi Henry.

Photos by Holli Margell.

(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, friends, and fans will gather on Sunday to remember Melvyn Poll – a longtime Alki resident, prominent member of the Jewish community, and distinguished opera singer – who died on Thursday. Here’s the remembrance shared with the community:

It is with great sadness that we share with you the passing of our beloved Melvyn Poll on January 12th, 2017.

A Seattle native, Mr. Poll began his musical career at Temple De Hirsch Sinai in the children’s choir, directed by Samuel Goldfarb. A graduate of Lakeside School, the University of Washington undergraduate and the UW Law School, his vocal career spanned continents and decades, a recent highlight being his singing the National Anthem at the Husky football games for the last several years.

He will be forever remembered for his profound love of family and friends, his quick wit, and enormous generosity and talent.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife Rosalind, children Sydney and Shaya Calvo, Ryan and Lisa Poll, and adored grandchildren Sasha, Eli, and Sally.

A memorial will be held Sunday, January 15th at 1:00 pm at Benaroya Hall Recital Hall.

Remembrances may be made to the Seattle Symphony or the charity of your choice.

Read more about Mr. Poll’s achievements here.

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

Those who knew and loved Meg McKennon will gather on January 14th to celebrate her life. Here’s the remembrance they are sharing with the community:

Meg McKennon, 47, of Seattle, passed away November 20th, 2016, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on January 27, 1969. Meg was an integral part of her close-knit family, and her absence will be mourned for their lifetimes.

Meg was generous, kind, and hard working. She deeply touched the lives of family and friends who will miss her distinctive sense of humor and style. In her professional life, Meg was a real-estate broker who led the opening team for the West Seattle Keller Williams office. She then went on to found her own successful real estate and property management office, Dwellings, in West Seattle. Meg was always looking to find the perfect home fit, to lend a hand, or to provide support and employment for those in need. Meg’s unparalleled and heartfelt approach to her profession will be greatly missed by her community.

True to her generous nature, Meg was an organ donor. Her generosity will live on in the dozens of lives her gifts have saved and improved throughout the Pacific Northwest.

Meg is survived by her parents: Nancy McKennon of Spokane, and Kelly McKennon and his wife Michi of Pullman. She is also survived by siblings and beloved nephews and nieces: brother Ruddy McKennon and his wife Sara McKennon and their children, Gracie, Liam and Finley; sister Robin Thaler and her husband Wyatt Thaler and their children Lola and Betty; sister Wendy McKennon and her partner Ben Peterson and their children Tallulah and Atticus; half-sister Skye McKennon; and stepsister Niki Wolkind.

Meg is also survived by the love of her life, a rescue dog named Katie. Instead of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Seattle Humane Society. Additionally, it would honor Meg’s memory to learn more about the debilitating disease of alcoholism.

Meg’s life will be celebrated at 2:30 pm on January 14th, 2017, at Dakota Place Park Building, located at 4304 SW Dakota St. Please join us in sharing memories and gratitude for Meg.

(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 Sunday to remember Bette Markley, 98. Here’s the remembrance being shared with the community:

Bette Markley, born in Seattle on June 6, 1918, passed away peacefully on November 6, 2016 – a full 98 years of life. Bette grew up in West Seattle and graduated from West Seattle High School in 1936.

Working with her Dad in Roullard’s Public Market, she met and married Bob at the close of World War II and together raised their family after returning to West Seattle. She returned to work as a medical receptionist and stenographer to support the family when Bob fell ill. Additionally, she served as secretary to the King County Academy of Family Physicians.

She was always positive, supporting and encouraging others and extending a genuine kindness and concern for neighbors, friends and most especially her family.

She loved to travel. She and Bob toured Europe numerous times in their camper van through their 80s, and she celebrated her 87th birthday on safari in Africa with her brother.

Bette is survived by her brother Richard Roullard (Shirley); her daughter Shannon, sons David (Jeanne) and Scott (Sally); and grandson Galen.

A celebration of her life will be held at The Kenney (7125 Fauntleroy Way SW) on Sunday December 18, 2016 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be sent to The Kenney Foundation, Resident Care Fund; 7125 Fauntleroy Way SW, Seattle, WA 98136-2008.

(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 celebration of Joel P. Eggert‘s life is now set for December 18th, one week from today, starting with a memorial ride. His friend Jamie Burton Chamberlin shares the details tonight, after this remembrance:

Joel was a very special man to so many people. He was a father, a son, a brother, a grandfather, a grandson, an uncle, a cousin, a nephew, a friend and most importantly, a lover. He was a lover of everything and everyone. Joel always had a camera in his hand as he found the beauty in everything and wanted to capture it. Joel died doing what he loved in the city he loved.

In a tragic accident, he crashed his motorcycle in West Seattle on Sunday, December 4th, on the way home from watching the Seahawks annihilate the Panthers. His motorcycle was not just one of his many passions, it fed his soul. He lived to ride and was never far from his amazing group of motorcycle brothers.

Joel was an artist. Always drawing, designing, and welding… he made incredibly beautiful things. He worked for Delta Marine and in his years there he marked dozens of amazing yachts with his beautiful designs. Joel lived for music… his soul sang to all of us. Most every night you would find him somewhere, whether it be home or out and about, listening to a new band or an old favorite, surrounded by friends, and making new ones. Joel made music as well – his guitars were his favorite tools, but he could rock the drums and even the piano. Music oozed from this man. The Seattle Music scene lost their biggest fan and will miss his presence greatly.

Joel was born in Minnesota and grew up in Rockford, MN. In 1994, he spread his love across the country to Seattle, but he stayed in contact with his childhood friends, and when he visited it was like he had never left. In his nearly 47 years on the planet, Joel touched the hearts of everyone who knew him and never left without a goodbye that included one of his amazing hugs. Even after his passing, he continues to change people’s lives as an organ donor; donating both kidneys, his liver and his beautiful, strong heart.

COMMEMORATION INFORMATION, NOON-6 PM DECEMBER 18

Please help us celebrate the life of Joel Patrick Eggert … Not enough can be said about how special he was to each and every one of us, and now we have a day to share our memories, recollections, music and stories.

Musical Performances by Darci Carlson, Kim Virant, Matt Strutynski, Ten Miles Wide, Windowpane, and many other Special Guests.

Special Patching Dedication and Toast by Parker Lundgren.

This event is open to the public and seating will be limited. Anyone with special seating needs please contact slimslastchancebooking@gmail.com

To share photos for the slideshow presentation, please send them to: joeleggertrocks@gmail.com by Wednesday, 12/14/16.

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A Memorial Motorcycle Ride will begin 10 am at The Orient Express, 2963 4th Ave S. All riders participating are requested to arrive and be parked at Slim’s by 11:45. For further info, contact Charlie Lorme, 206-817-3786.

The family of Joyce Gould is sharing this remembrance with the community:

Joyce Gould, age 94, passed away on November 22, 2016, at her home in West Seattle.

She is survived by her two children, David Gould and Janet Walters; spouses Peggy Cummings and John Walters respectively; grandchildren Eric Gould and spouse Dwight Gaut, Stacie Worden and spouse Seth Worden, and Ty Walters; and great-grandchild Danielle Miller.

Joyce was born in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, and grew up in the states of Wisconsin, Michigan, and New York. Living in Norwich, New York, she married James Gould, her husband for the next 69 years, and after World War II moved to Seattle for economic and educational opportunities — a better life and future for themselves and their family. She worked at a variety of jobs, including several years on the Washington State Ferry system. Along the way, she helped her husband remodel several homes, and they built the home they lived in for the remaining 36 years of her life.

Funeral services will be held later in December at Tahoma National Cemetery. Remembrances may be made to a charity of your choice in her memory. Arrangements by Howden-Kennedy Funeral Home. Share your memories of Joyce here.

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

Viewing, burial, and memorial dates are set for Andrew “Andy” L. Nelson, 95, and his family is sharing this remembrance with the community:

Andrew (Andy) Louis Nelson climbed his last mountain on Wednesday, November 23rd (just shy of his 96th birthday), at The Kenney in West Seattle. Andy was born in Seattle on December 10, 1920, to George Gedeon Nelson and Bertha Amelia Lindfors Nelson. Andy’s grandfather Andrew Nelson was a Swedish immigrant and pioneer in the Juanita area who built the Juanita School and the Modern Woodman Hall (Juanita Community Church). The Nelson family home, built by Andy’s grandfather at 100th NE & NE 132nd, was torn down in the 1970’s to make way for an Albertson’s grocery store.

Even at a young age Andy was an outdoor guy; he loved scouting and the mountains. There is some evidence that he even won a 1934 Seattle Model Sailboat Race at Green Lake.

Andy graduated from Lincoln High School in 1939 and then attended the University of Washington, graduating in 1943 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics. Having served in the UW ROTC program (Sept 1942), Andy entered the Army Air Corps as a 2nd Lieutenant in February 1944.

Andy served as an Electronics Officer during WWII instructing pilots on navigation systems. He was awarded the Asiatic Pacific Theatre Ribbon; America Theatre Ribbon; World War II Victory Medal as well as numerous commendations. Towards the end of WWII Andy was promoted to 1st Lieutenant. After his discharge from the Army, Andy was advised that as a Mathematics teacher he would not earn much money and he enrolled at the UW for a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering.

Andy’s business career was at Boeing as an Engineer writing technical manuals for aeronautical applications.

As an Eagle Scout (1937), Andy gave back to the community in so many ways. He was a Life Member of the Mountaineers, Life Member of the UW Alumni Association (Go Dawgs!), Boy Scouts of America Troop #282 Leader (recognized for his over 60 years in scouting), West Seattle Lions Club, West Side Presbyterian Church and an all-around wilderness adventurer who shared his love of hiking and mountain climbing (he climbed Mt Rainier twice) with many. Andy “walked the walk; talked the talk” when it came to understanding the environmental issues in keeping “the great outdoors” great.

While Andy had no children of his own, his wife, the late Doris Isabella Powell Halliday Nelson, presented him with a family of stepchildren, grandchildren, nieces and nephews, all who thoroughly enjoyed him. Doris and Andy spent many years traveling throughout the world – from Elder Hostels and UW trips across America to Europe to Australia; Antarctica; the Arctic; Africa; Asia; Central & South America, etc.

Andy is survived by his step-daughter Diane Halliday Longyear of Elko, Nevada, and her son Rick Longyear (also of Elko) and children/grandchildren; the children & family of her son Robert (deceased) Longyear; nephew William R. Powell of Chehalis; nieces Bonny Powell Taylor of Kent; Patricia Powell McGuire (Joe) of Manchester; and their families consisting of great- & great-great-nephews and -nieces.

The family would also like to acknowledge and thank longtime friends Gary Benson; Warren McKinstry; Paul Smith; Rev. Ron Rice; Stacy St. John; Ron Burke; and Bill Hart for their friendship, rides, stories, etc. We so appreciate your friendship with Andy and your stories! And a special thank you to all the past Troop 282 members. Last, but not certainly least, is a special thank you for the wonderful staff at The Kenney/Lincoln Vista and the Kline Galland Hospice – what a wonderful group of caring individuals!

The family requests that in lieu of flowers and in keeping with Andy’s pattern of giving, contributions in his memory to any of the following organizations would be appreciated: The Seattle Council Boy Scouts of America; West Seattle Senior Center; West Seattle Food Bank; Southwest Seattle Historical Museum; The Kenney Foundation; The Nordic Museum; or The Mountaineers.

A viewing will be held on December 1st from 11 am – 1 pm at Forest Lawn Funeral Home with military graveside service at 2 pm at Evergreen Washelli. Memorial service on December 9th at 11 am at West Side Presbyterian Church with reception to follow. Please visit forestlawn-seattle.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)

The family of Doreen Gretchen (Mallory) Hammond, 88, is sharing this remembrance with the community:

Doreen Gretchen Hammond, a lifelong resident of West Seattle, was born September 4, 1928 in Seattle. Doreen passed away November 19, 2016 in West Seattle, her home for 88 years. Doreen was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, mother-in-law, cousin, and friend. Doreen graduated from West Seattle High School in 1946. She was preceded in death by husband Harry Lloyd Hammond of Black Diamond; parents Dillon and Margaret Mallory; and her son Hal Jeffrey Hammond of Seattle. Surviving are daughter, Pamela Jean Hammond Miller (John); 3 grandchildren, Jason A Miller (April), Gretchen R Miller, and Brian Jeffrey Hammond (Natalie), all of Seattle; 6 great-grandchildren; daughter-in-law Margaret Hammond; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Hers was a Masonic family, with father, husband, son, and son-in-law either or both Masters or members of West Seattle Lodge 152 F&AM and the Nile Shrine. Doreen was a lifetime member and Past President of the American Legion Auxiliary Post #160 in West Seattle; many Masonic orders including 50 years at Chapter #241, Order of Eastern Star in Belfair. She and her husband resided in retirement at a summer home on Mason Lake. She was a “Masonic wife” with all that entailed, as the men in her life ran the chairs to WM at Alki Lodge in West Seattle and WP in Belfair Chapter 241 OES. Doreen was also a member of Daughters of the Nile and Ahmes. Her father, husband, son, and daughter all retired from the Seattle Engineering Department.

Remembrances may be made in Doreen’s name to the American Heart Association or a charity of your choice. By her request, there will be no memorial service; arrangements by Howden-Kennedy Funeral Home in 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 next Saturday for a funeral Mass in memory of Patricia B. Werlech. Here’s the remembrance they’re sharing:

Patricia B. Werlech, born December 20, 1932, youngest of 12 children, died November 5, 2016, in Seattle.

Raised in Chelan; parents Carl and Ethel Fels. Patricia is survived by her husband Donald; children Donita, Deena, Michael, and daughter-in-law Mary-Jo; grandchildren Daniel (22), Joseph (20), Michael (19) Werlech, and Anthony (21) and Alexander (18) Parker; and brother Wilbert Fels. Patricia lost a 2-year battle with cancer, passing away peacefully at home, surrounded by her family.

Patricia was a homemaker and worked in a family business. She had a passion for reading, gardening, hummingbird watching, cooking, entertaining, and celebrating life. Patricia’s greatest joy and happiest times were with her 5 grandsons, doing things for them – cooking something special, cheering at their sporting events, and attending school functions – so that they would always remember Grammy. And they did. She was so proud of her grandsons.

Patricia will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, special grandmother ‘Grammy,’ and friend. Her smile and love will forever live in our hearts.

Donations can be made in her memory to Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Funeral Mass at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, November 26, 2016, at 10 am, 7000 35th Ave. SW, West Seattle. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, 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)

The family of Phyllis F. Pulfer, 89, is sharing this remembrance with the community, as she was a graduate of West Seattle High School and a member of its Hall of Fame:

Phyllis Feiring Pulfer passed away on Sept. 29, 2016, at Washington Odd Fellows Home, surrounded by family. She was born on Dec. 7, 1926, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to Howard Farbach and Helen McGrath Farbach. After her mother’s passing when she was still quite young, she was raised by her grandparents in Seattle and later adopted by her maternal aunt and uncle, Odene and Arthur Feiring. She graduated from West Seattle High School and attended the University of Washington. She took time away from her studies at the University, worked for a time, and later transferred to the University of Oregon. It was there that she met a rather dashing fellow who was going to college on the GI bill. Robert B. Pulfer and Phyllis were married on June 17, 1948.

Phyllis and “Bob” started a family, and after his graduation, he went to work for the Corps of Engineers, which took them to several locations along the Columbia River. They had 6 children in 8 years and she enjoyed being a mother. She was awarded “mother of the year” in 1962 and was active in Camp Fire, PTA, and her church. She returned to complete her degree in her 40s at Whitman College while raising her children, and with very limited vision. She graduated from Whitman College in 1969 with a degree in Economics. She took a job at Blue Mountain Action Council and advanced to Executive Director within a few short years. She retired from BMAC in 1992 and continued in her role as chairman of the Human Rights Commission for the state of Washington.

Phyllis will be remembered for her tireless advocacy for social justice. She fought for the rights of the educationally and economically disadvantaged, the differently abled and the victims of bigotry and injustice. She served on many boards of directors in the community helping to steer organizations to financial solvency. While at BMAC she instituted programs to help winterize homes, developed training and employment for disadvantaged youth, created the Day Care Center at the Migrant Labor Camp, and many more services to the benefit of those in need in the community. She was particularly interested in adult literacy and helped to start Project Read. She was interested in women’s rights and served on the board of Planned Parenthood and started the local NOW chapter. Her ability to work with parties across the spectrum of political and economic entities to create a lasting legacy of care for all the members of the community is legendary.

Those who worked for her have praised her ability to bring out the best in themselves as she encouraged them to fulfill their potential. She listened to the concerns of those around her and had a keen eye for simple solutions. She had a soft heart and a ready tear, but she did not get mired in the emotional aspects of the job at hand. There are few social service organizations in the valley that did not benefit from her time and energy.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her mother, father, Sister Patricia Bristow, and son Bruce James Pulfer. Her husband Robert Pulfer died two days following her passing. She is survived by daughters Janet Velez (Ray), Marianne Pulfer (Richard Thurston), Kathleen Burgess (Aaron) ,and Nadean Pulfer (Irving Rosenberg), and a son, Ross Pulfer. She dearly loved her 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren who will remember her fondly.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Teen Center/Blue Mountain Action Council (homeless shelter for teens) or organization of your choice, through Herring-Groseclose 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 4th to remember Kathleen Ramee, and are sharing this remembrance with the community:

Kathleen Rock Ramee, 72, passed away peacefully in her sleep on October 1, 2016. She was born in Seattle to Edward Arthur Rock and Bernice Christine Lunde Rock. As a young adult, she traveled the world and stayed in Norway for a couple of years where she worked as a cook on a farm. She continued to live her Norwegian heritage throughout her life and passed on the traditions to her family. She lived many years in Wyoming, enjoying the wild west, and came back to her home in Seattle in 2004.

Her true calling was raising her girls as a single mom. She loved her kids more than anything and supported them in everything they did. Kathleen was adventurous, brave, independent, a free spirit and a true and wise friend. She loved good food, golfing, crocheting, travel, going to the casino and spending time with her daughters and grandchildren. Kathleen was vibrant and always lit up a room and will be loved and remembered by all that met her. She was a living example of her favorite Sophia Loren quote, “After all these years, I am still involved in the process of self-discovery. It’s better to explore life and make mistakes than to play it safe. Mistakes are part of the dues one pays for a full life.”

She is survived by her daughters, Kimberly McDonald and Kelley Murphy, and her grandchildren, Celia and Cypress McDonald, and by her brother, Gordon Rock.

Please join us in celebrating her life on December 4, 2016 from 2:30 – 5:30 pm at the Sanctuary at Admiral in West Seattle. Please dress as mom would have liked – colorful and bright, with some sparkle thrown in for good measure.

In lieu of flowers or donations, please watch a beautiful storm with waves crashing upon the rocks, and hug your loved ones often and tell them you love them. That would make her smile knowing that love abounds.

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