Family and friends will gather July 12th to celebrate the life of Dennis R. Capalby. Here’s the remembrance they’re sharing with his community:

Dennis Robert Capalby
April 23, 1950- June 11, 2022

Dennis passed peacefully in his home with his family by his side.

Dennis was a lifelong resident of West Seattle and had many wonderful memories of growing up and living in this community. He loved boating and was a longtime member of the Jim Clark Marina.

He leaves his wife Teri and their children Tyler (Kerri), Amanda, and Nick (Robyn), and his five grandchildren whom he adored, Henry, Kate, Charlie, Eloise, and Zoey.

A Celebration of Life well lived will be held at The Hall at Fauntleroy on Tuesday, July 12, from 1:00 – 3:00. All are welcome.

To share memories and condolences of Dennis with his family and friends, please visit: www.emmickfunerals.com/obituary/Dennis-Capalby.

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

The family of longtime West Seattle community advocate Dennis Ross has announced his death. Here’s the remembrance they’re sharing:

Dennis Andrew Ross passed away on February 2, 2022 from congestive heart failure. Dennis was born on March 24, 1939. He was raised in Vinita Park, MO, a small village near the city line of St. Louis. He attended St. Rita’s grade school, Mercy High School and St. Louis University. He served in the US Marine Corps from 1963-1965. Dennis began his career at the Kroger Company, where he quickly established himself as a troubleshooting expert in transportation and logistics for the company. Kroger transferred him throughout the midwest including Peoria, IL, Pittsburgh, PA, Columbus, OH, Nashville, TN, and Cincinnati, OH.

After leaving Kroger with 20 years of service, he took similar positions in Phoenix and Los Angeles. He then lived in Durango, Colorado, where he pursued his love of the natural world. In the early 1990s he moved to Seattle, where he lived until his passing.

Wherever Dennis lived, he contributed to his community, volunteering and leading efforts to better those places and people he befriended, however he could best serve. He was unassuming, totally reliable, hard-working, and as clever as they come in the pursuit of what improved the world around him. West Seattle, where he lived, benefitted for many years from his dedication to improving that unique part of Seattle which he loved. HIs persistence and commitment to his community was most remarkable.

Dennis loved to travel, both throughout the United States as well as abroad. Even in his later years, with modest means, he figured out how to scratch that itch, be it train rides across Canada, bus trips to visit all the major-league parks in the midwest, even China to see the Great Wall and the terracotta soldiers.

He loved his Washington Huskies, attending all manner and number of sporting events, especially the Lady Husky basketball team. His capacity to understand systems, and how to improve them, never left him. He dispassionately surveyed the fate of the Seattle Mariners every Spring and accurately predicted their performance, which unfortunately has been far more dismal than successful. But he still went to Spring Training every chance he got.

His great passion was to walk the streets and parks of Seattle and central Puget Sound. He walked as much and as often as he could until he could walk no more. He was a proud and appreciated member of several organized walking clubs in Seattle. He rode the bus tirelessly throughout the region and railed about how he could fix its problems if only given a chance! And he was spot on … as always.

Dennis received great care from the VA hospital, which extended the quality of his life. His cardiac Nurse Practitioner, Sandy Cruz, looked out for him and was on his team all the way to the end. His final care at the LakeView Adult Family home was compassionate and competent. Dennis was preceded in death by his parents William A. Ross and Blanche Mowry Ross and his wife, Toni Ross. He is survived by his brothers Tom and Bill and his sister Sally. He was loved by many cousins and friends.

If people are moved to remember Dennis, donations to the Sierra Club or the American Diabetes Association would be appreciated. A celebration of Dennis’s life will occur later this summer.

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

Family and friends of Don Werlech will gather July 2 for his Funeral Mass. Here’s the remembrance they are sharing with his community:

Donald Stephen Werlech
In Loving Memory

It is with sadness that we say goodbye to our father at 94 years old.

Donald Stephen Werlech (Don) was born March 16, 1928, the oldest of five children, and passed away peacefully at home June 10, 2022, surrounded by his three children and five grandsons.

Born to Croatian immigrants Mike and Josephine Werlech, Don was raised in the Riverside neighborhood and was a lifelong resident of West Seattle. He attended Holy Rosary grade school and Seattle Prep High School. Following high school, Don served honorably in the US Army as a peacekeeper following World War II. His service to our country paved the way for him to attend Seattle University on the GI Bill. Always independent minded, Don was a successful business owner of more than 45 years in the White Center area.

Don’s passions were numerous. A lifelong member of the Croatian Fraternal Union, he attended many functions throughout the year, including picnics and music festivals. Don spent many hours restoring his “baby,” a vintage 1931 Ford Model A, and was a proud member of the Evergreen A’s, a group of local Model A enthusiasts. In 2021, he was honored by the A’s with their prestigious Man of the Year award. He loved reading, hummingbird watching, fishing and traveling with his life-long buddies, family gatherings and reunions, and especially socializing with old friends and new acquaintances.

Don’s greatest joy and ministry was helping others. He would make people laugh with his stories and quick tease. He would drive those in need to any appointment or event. You would often see Don at Providence Mount St. Vincent visiting all the residents and taking time to talk and get to know them. He would often bring them flowers to brighten up their day. His generosity did not stop there, as he would also bring flowers to his family and friends. He had a passion for daily walks around the neighborhood and would often take his neighbor’s dog Tucker (and any other dog he would spot along the way), ending with a treat and lots of appreciative barking.

Without question, Don’s greatest passion was his five grandsons. Don spent countless hours cheering at their sporting events and attending school functions, always the proud Grandpa. Don loved going on road trips to his grandsons’ sports tournaments or simply to visit them as they grew into young men and ventured out on their own.

Don was a strong believer in community and family. He and his wife raised their children in the family home on 35th Avenue, which they owned for 61 years. Don regularly attended mass just down the road at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, where he served as head usher for years. As testament to Don’s belief in being a strong member of the community, all eight of his children and grandchildren graduated from Kennedy Catholic High School in Burien.

Don is survived by his children Donita, Deena, and Michael; daughter-in-law Mary Jo; grandsons Danny (28), Anthony (27), Joey (26), Michael (24), and Alexander, (24); and his sister Helen Chamberlain and brother Zrene Werlech. Donald is preceded in death by his loving wife of 56 years, Patricia. Don will forever be remembered as a loving husband, father, special grandfather, and friend to many. We feel blessed to have had him for so long and know he will be forever missed. His smile, laughter, and love will forever live in our hearts.

For those wishing to offer a token of remembrance, the family respectfully asks that in lieu of flowers, a donation in Don’s name be made to Saint Theresa’s Orphanage of Zagreb, Croatia c/o CFU 439, Humanitarian Aid Fund, 2130 48th Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98116.

Funeral Mass at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, July 2, 2022, at 10 am, 7000 35th Avenue SW, Seattle. Burial at Calvary Catholic Cemetery, Seattle. Please view his online obituary at bonneywatson.com.

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

Family and friends are remembering Don Charles, and sharing this remembrance with the community:

Donald Oliver Charles – a husband, father, grandfather, great- grandfather, brother, son, uncle, and a loyal friend – passed away May 14, 2022, with his wife by his side, and the love of family and friends seeded in his heart.

Don was born May 22, 1938 at Georgetown Hospital in Seattle. He grew up on Beacon Hill and went to Maple grade school and then on to Cleveland High School, class of ’57’. He played football for the “EAGLES.” At a dance after the game, he met his wife; they have been married 65 years.

Don worked at Boeing for 40 years, traveling all over the world. Don and Marilyn moved to Tehran, Iran and were there for 3 years, working for the Shah of Iran until the government was overthrown. They traveled all over the Mideast and saw a different world.

Don was a Mason and very active with the Nile Shrine. He was Sultan of the oriental band, and proud member of the drum section. Don also was Director of Nile Temple Guard; he also was a member of the Nile Yacht Club, while he was owner of a boat. Don was president of West Seattle Shrine Club. He hosted their annual picnic every year. Don was a true Shriner.

Don was preceded in death by his parents Claude and Henrietta Charles and son Donald Edward Charles. Don is survived by wife Marilyn Charles, his daughters Debra (Mike) Parsinen, Diana (Gary) Abels, and daughter-in-law Lisa Charles, and 5 grandchildren, brother Robert (Susan) Charles, and countless friends and extended family

A Masonic Service was held May 28, 2022 at Alki Masonic Temple. Donation to: Memorial to Shriner Hospital for Children.

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

Family and friends are remembering Eleanor “Jaunie” Popich, and sharing this remembrance with her community:

Jaunie Popich died peacefully on April 24, 2022, at the age of 98. Born on July 5, 1923, she lived most her life in West Seattle except for two years in San Diego during WWII. She attended Jefferson Grade School, Madison Junior High School, and West Seattle High School. She spent one year at Washington State College but left to return home at the start of WWII.

Jaunie married her childhood sweetheart, Walter D. Popich, on July 24, 1943, and they enjoyed 52 years of marriage until his passing on February 1, 1995. She was active from childhood at Tibbetts United Methodist Church, singing for many years in the choir. She joined Sweet Adelines International in 1955 and remained active for 60 years, helping with local and regional administration. She finished her singing career at Lakeside Chorus alongside her granddaughter Cynthia Maki.

Jaunie was an avid golfer, joining the West Seattle Women’s Golf Club in 1949 and captaining their women’s team in 1960 and 1965. She also served for 15 years on the Greater Seattle Women’s Public Golf Association. She enjoyed golf, attending UW Football, Sonics, and Mariner games as well as her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren’s many sporting activities. She spent her final years at Judson Park in Des Moines (2016-2022).

She is survived by two sons, Dr. Gregory (Robin) Popich, Gig Harbor, and Christopher (Christine) Popich, Kent, WA; grandchildren Mark Popich, Andria (John) Stephens, Julia (Roque) Bamba, Cynthia (Aaron) Maki, and Kevin (Kate) Popich; great-grandchildren Soren and Sloane Popich, Matthew (Aubrey), Aly, and Luke Stephens, Griffin and Sam Bamba, and Ella and Kate Maki; great-great-granddaughters Hailey and Tessa Stephens. Private services were held May 20th, 2022.

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

Family and friends will gather June 18th for a “block party” to celebrate the life of Jeffrey P. Sifferman. Here’s the remembrance they’re sharing with his community:

Jeffrey Paul Sifferman, son, brother, husband, dad, uncle, coach, mentor, sculptor, musician, gardener, veteran, naturalist, animal whisperer/companion, community leader, and volunteer, historian, neighbor, and loyal friend, passed away peacefully the morning of May 16, 2022, with his wife by his side and the love of family and friends seeded deeply in his heart.

Jeff was born October 7, 1953 in Seattle, the fourth of seven children. He grew up in Seattle’s Rainier Valley. He attended Columbia (City) School, Our Lady of Mount Virgin School, O’Dea High School, and graduated from Franklin High School in 1971. He played high-school football and, beginning as a child, preferred to spend his time in the great outdoors, exploring the mountain streams, high lakes, and ocean waves of Washington state.

His lifelong passion for hiking, camping, and fishing was sparked as a member of Boy Scout Troop 205. He spent summers playing sandlot baseball and peering through the outfield walls as a proud member of the infamous Sick’s Stadium Knothole Gang or perched on Cheapskate Hill watching Seattle Rainiers and Angels baseball games. He was an instigator of antics and enjoyed retelling the stories of his childhood.

Jeff proudly served in the United States Marine Corps 1971-1973 (Camp Pendleton, CA) and received an honorable discharge. He maintained close friendships with other Marines and enjoyed making new connections through social media in recent years. He held strong political views, and placed a high value on honesty, fairness, and democracy.

Jeff’s talents were extensive, as he was gifted at teaching himself the skills needed to do anything that sparked his interest. Although the guitar was where he honed his musical skills, he loved to break out a tune on the flute, piano, or any other instrument he picked up. Jeff was also an accomplished artist, carving beautifully detailed sculptures out of wood and stone. He would turn a raw piece of wood or stone over and over in his hands, examining the patterns and imperfections he’d work with, chiseling away until he felt it was finished. He humbly declined to sell his pieces, and instead gifted most of his work to family and friends. His hope of completing some of his unfinished pieces to gift before passing, was stifled by the physical disability that eventually came with his illness.

His artistic creativity carried over into his unparalleled mastery of gardening and natural conservation. He created many a peaceful refuge, whether in his own garden, at the family ocean retreat in Moclips, or in the woods of Me-Kwa-Mooks Park behind his home. He shared his deep knowledge of the natural history of the area and was committed to removing non-native plants and invasive species to restore and preserve the native flora and fauna to the park. He coordinated numerous work parties and tours for the West Seattle community in both Me-Kwa-Mooks and Schmitz Parks.

Jeff married Doreen Roseto in 1996 and they settled on the edge of Me-Kwa-Mooks Park in West Seattle. He loved his children fiercely, and wholly embraced the role of being a stay-at-home-dad. Having kids tapped into a new world of adventure and cherished friendships for Jeff. He was the “go to” parent you could call at the last minute for help when plans went awry. He often gathered friends together for impromptu barbeques, epic block parties, lunch in the junction, or just a quiet campfire chat. Jeff loved talking to and meeting friends, new and old. He often said, “Everyone has an interesting story, you just need to listen.” His friends hail from Alaska to the tip of Baja, where he and his family and friends often journeyed. He loved the ocean and never lived far from it.

Jeff was diagnosed with metastatic esophageal cancer in March 2016. He was so appreciative of the kindness and care he received from his oncology team at the Swedish Cancer Institute. He said he didn’t want his story to read that he had fought cancer, because his role in the fight was small by comparison to the knowledge, skills, and dedication of his oncologist, Dr. Song Zhao. Jeff claimed Dr. Zhao was the master of the battle that came.

Jeff is preceded in death by his parents Raymond Sifferman and Lillian Reams Sifferman, infant brother Jan Patrick Sifferman and sister Patsy Miramontez. Jeff is survived by his wife Doreen Roseto Sifferman; children, Jon, Jackie, Kassy, and Ray; his brothers Ray Sifferman (Lisa), Rex Tippery (Penny), Mike Sifferman (Drena) and sister Carolyn Sifferman; a large extended family and countless friends.

Jeff wasn’t one for formal events or dressing up – a quick glance into his closet for any doubters would confirm that – so it’s only fitting that we honor him with, what else …. but a block party. Please join us on Saturday, June 18, beginning at 4 pm at the Sifferman residence. If you can bring a potluck dish to share, we would be most appreciative. We’ll provide plenty of libations, good music (working on a band) and an evening you won’t want to end.

Jeff will be laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery in Seattle in a private family gathering in July.

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

An update today from the family of another person for whom an event hadn’t yet been planned when we published their remembrance. This Saturday, family and friends of Stephen L. Fuller will gather:

The celebration of life for Stephen L. Fuller will be at Fauntleroy Church UCC, 9140 California Ave SW, on June 4th, beginning at 3:00 pm, with a reception to follow at Salty’s on Alki – The Alki Room, 1936 Harbor Ave SW, from 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm.

We ask that people wear something that exudes how our father lived – in fashion and fun. Please come in color, dressed to party, laugh, love, and, only occasionally, cry. All are welcome!

Family and friends are remembering Arthur Gunlogson, and sharing this remembrance with the community:

Arthur Gunlogson died May 4, 2022, in West Seattle, a few weeks after being diagnosed with mesothelioma. He was born in 1928 in Akra, North Dakota, the oldest of four siblings. In 1944 he joined the Navy, serving on the USS Duluth. While a reservist studying at North Dakota State, he was recalled to active duty for the Korean War, serving on the USS Bon Homme Richard. He completed his degree at the University of Washington and embarked on a long and productive career as a civil & structural engineer.

Art had an endless succession of projects, large and small, from constructing houses for his family to building a sailing dinghy to putting together his own computer. He was happiest when busy, and especially when analyzing, designing, and building – a true engineer. He took special interest in the West Seattle Bridge and was eager to see it back in operation.

Art married Anne Kriegel in 1956 and raised three children with her in West Seattle, where they lived until her death in 1990. In 1995 he married Anita Meyer, with whom he spent many happy years in the Chehalis area (with winter breaks in Arizona), until her death in July 2021.

He is survived by his sister Janice (spouse Jack Brandt), daughter Christine (Greg Carlson), and son Mark (Heidi Bornstein); his son John (Rosie) died in 2013. He leaves three granddaughters, Rachel, Grace, and Ellie, and an extended step-family.

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

Family and friends are remembering James Jones, and sharing this with the community:

James William Jones, loving husband, father, and grandfather, passed away April 20, 2022. He was born May 11, 1940 in Great Falls, Montana to Lloyd and Stella Jones.

Jim will always be remembered for his love of salmon fishing, boating, Husky football, and talking with pride about his daughters and grandchildren.

Jim grew up in West Seattle, running around Lincoln Park and Alki Beach. He graduated from West Seattle High School in 1958 and went on to graduate from the University of Washington School of Business in 1964. He was also a graduate of Pacific Coast Banking School. Jim served in the U.S. Coast Guard Reserves and worked on the Washington State Ferries, developing his seamanship and love of the water.

Jim and Dorothy Joyce married in 1960. Daughters Denise and Lauren were adored by their father. He encouraged them in all of their activities throughout the years and was their biggest supporter. Jim and Dorothy divorced in the early 1980s.

Jim’s shared knowledge in the fields of agriculture, forestry, fishing, construction, and commercial lending helped many people. His banking career began in 1964 at SeaFirst/Bank of America, serving as Branch Manager, Loan Officer, and Vice President. In 1992 he moved to Frontier Bank as Vice President and Senior Lending Officer, retiring in 2000.

Throughout his career and retirement, Jim always gave back to the community. He served over 30 years on the Puget Sound Kidney Centers Board of Directors; was a past member of the Arlington Rotary Club, served on the Arlington City Council and various other boards.

Jim met his wife and best friend Patti and they were blessed with almost 36 years of marriage. They enjoyed boating and fishing in the San Juan and Gulf Islands, exploring the Washington and Oregon coasts, and lots of road trips.

Jim’s spirit and love for life lives on with his family and friends. He will be greatly missed by his wife Patti, daughters Denise (Alex Hattwig), Lauren (Greg Stephens), and grandchildren Camille, Chloe, and Charlie, as well as many close friends and relatives.

Service was held last weekend at Peace Lutheran Church in Silvana. Memorials to the Puget Sound Kidney Centers appreciated.

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

Family and friends are remembering Larry Hilden and sharing this with the community:

Laurence Roland Hilden passed away peacefully at his home at age 94 on April 24, 2022.

He was born in Hager City, WI to Arthur and Ruth Hilden. After graduating from school, he joined the US Navy a month before his 18th birthday in November 1945. He served aboard the USS Trippe (DD-403) and participated in the Operation Crossroads nuclear weapons tests at Bikini Atoll on July 25, 1946.

After returning from the service, he worked at the Red Wing Shoe Factory where he met his wife, Elaine. They were married in Red Wing, MN in June 1949 and moved to the Pacific Northwest in 1951, eventually settling in Ballard in 1962. Laurence (known as “Larry” by his customers) owned and operated G&B Shoe Rebuilders (“If the shoe fits, repair it”) in the West Seattle Junction for 41 years.

He enjoyed traveling, playing guitar, writing song lyrics, boating, voracious reading, crossword puzzles, daily walks at Golden Gardens, and he especially enjoyed taking the “devil’s advocate” position in spirited and lively conversations.

He was preceded in death by his wife Elaine in 2005. He is survived by his daughters Loreli Tarsiuk (Terry) and Elana Bryan West (Chuck West); grandchildren Justin Tarsiuk (Kristen), Alissa Tarsiuk, Jackson Bryan, and great-grandson Rocco Tarsiuk. He is also survived by his brother Floyd Hilden, sister Jeanne McArthur, and his aunt (yes, his aunt!) Ruby Foley of Red Wing, MN.

He was interred at Crown Hill Cemetery in Ballard on May 14, 2022.

Memorial contributions may be made to Ballard NW Senior Center.

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

Family and friends will gather May 23rd to remember Jack Geary, and are sharing this remembrance with his community:

Thomas “Jack” Anthony Geary, 77, of Seattle, passed away on May 6th, 2022, after a short battle with pancreatic cancer.

Jack was brought into this world on June 12th, 1944, by his loving parents, John “Jack” Geary and Sarah “Sadie” Geary, in Nuns Island, Galway, Ireland, where he spent the early part of his life. As a student, Jack attended Saint Patrick’s Primary School in his youth, then graduated from Saint Joseph’s Secondary School in 1961. True to his studious nature, Jack went on to earn a college degree in both English and History, as well as a Higher Diploma in Education in 1965 at University College Galway.

Throughout his academic years, Jack was enthralled by recreational activities like rowing and rugby. He won five rugby championship cups, one during secondary school and four while attending college. While Jack was a gifted student and sportsman, most people remember him for his lifelong passion for music, which he enjoyed up until his final day. To Jack, music was life. As a keen musician, he became well known in the folk scene in Galway following college and went on to start his first band in Galway called “The Galway Blazers.”

Eager to establish a meaningful career in music, Jack left Ireland in 1968 and moved to New York City, where he played music in a band called “The Freedom Folk” with Sean Tyrrell. Together they produced a beautiful folk album called “Apples in Winter.”

Soon after, Jack moved to Boston and then to Newburyport, Massachusetts in 1969. It was in Newburyport that Jack met the love of his life, Terri, at a restaurant called the Townhouse, in Lowell, Massachusetts. The two married a year later on January 27th, 1970. On June 9th, 1971 they had their son, Colin Geary. Colin was raised in Newburyport, Massachusetts.

While in Newburyport, Jack formed a band called Harvest Home. For two decades Jack continued to play music; Terri had careers as a flight attendant and a restaurateur. Together they were living their best lives while raising their son.

In 1991, Jack and Terri drove across the country to settle in Seattle and care for Terri’s elderly mother. Jack played music in the local area and in 1993 he and Terry became proprietors of The Owl n’ Thistle Irish Pub, located in downtown Seattle. Eager to make this a family business, Colin answered his parents call to move to Seattle and help run the pub. It was at The Owl n’ Thistle that Jack felt the greatest joy entertaining friends and patrons, which he did up until his final days. To this day, The Owl n Thistle has been wildly successful and a staple in the community. Thanks to Jack’s hands-on approach and generous nature, many of his employees went on to become entrepreneurs, restauranteurs, and successful musicians. Walking into The Owl n’ Thistle for the first time, there’s a strong sense of community with patrons and locals but also a rich connection with the Seattle music scene, all which Jack took great pride in fostering. Today, Jack’s memory is celebrated by friends and family who he loved with all his heart.

Jack was predeceased by his parents, Jack and Sadie Geary, his siblings Angela Packard, John (Poonah) Geary, and his son Colin Geary. He is survived by his wife Terri Geary, his brother Eamonn Geary, and his sisters Maura Castling, Jane Bilyard, and sister Susan Quinn.

Please join us on Monday, May 23, 2022 @ 11 am at Holy Rosary Church in West Seattle, 4139 42nd Ave SW. Reception to follow at The Owl n’ Thistle Irish Pub, 808 Post Ave.

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

So many of the remembrances we published these past two years ended with the promise that a celebration of life would be scheduled at a later date. One such was that of Ralph L. Heitt, remembered here in April of last year. Now we have an update on plans for a gathering: “A memorial/celebration of Ralph’s life will be held at St. Clement’s Episcopal Church, 1501 32nd Ave S., Seattle, on May 28th, 2022 at 11 am.”

Family and friends will gather May 21st to celebrate the life of Mike Lobdell. Here’s the remembrance they’re sharing:

Remembering Mike Lobdell, 1950-2021

For those who had the privilege of knowing Mike through the years, you know that nothing made him more proud than his family. You’d often catch him saying, “Yes, that’s my family, I did that.”

His legacy will continue to live on. He is survived by his wife Lynn, their three daughters and their husbands, three grandchildren, two great-grandchildren.

Please come help celebrate Mike’s life on the 21st of May at the White Center Eagles from 2-5 pm. Bring your best stories to share as we raise a shot in celebration of Mike.

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

Family and friends are remembering John S. Rundberg and have just provided this remembrance to share with the community:

John Sarjent Rundberg was born on November 22, 1939 in St Louis, Missouri to Ray A. and Wilma G. Rundberg. John passed away on December 28, 2021 after being diagnosed on his 82nd birthday with a very rare undifferentiated, aggressive pancreatic cancer.

The things John was most proud of:

~His time at Ohio State University
~Four years of service in the U.S. Army
~Being a teacher/ librarian with the Seattle Public Schools from 1969-2008 – Teaching from high school down to kindergarten, while always inspiring students with his love for books and reading.
~Marriage to his wife Diann and helping her raise her four children: Tyler, Ryan, Sarah, and Micah. His love of being a Grandfather to Granddaughters Zoey A. and Taya V.

While being a member of the Hutchison family for 25-plus years.

~ A beach home in Manzanita, Oregon
~ Leading six major river canoe trips 1989 -1997
~ Maintaining deep lifetime friendships
~ Travels all over the US and Canada: camping in tents, Tipi, and finally an RV
~ Six years of taking a group of volunteer friends and family to “The American Prairie Reserve” to clean up and preserve the land for the growing Bison population.

The John We All Came to Know and Love:

Tipi man John * wood crafter John * plaid flannel shirt John * newspaper clipper John * Montana bison fence remover John * dog lover John * comes down for dinner, then leaves John * pie lover John * always has 5-7 knives on him John * surprise benefactor John * storyteller John * teacher John * canoe paddler in the pool John * musician John * technophobe John * historian John * Friend John * knitter of squares John * book collector John * librarian John * Manzanita community member John * won’t fly, train man John * cowboy novel reader John * and: “Always about our age” * Plus: Husband * Father * Brother * Uncle * Cousin * Grandpa *

John is survived by his wife, Diann Hutchison Rundberg; Brother, Paul Rundberg (Sandy); nieces Suzanne Jones and Rebecca Boozer, all of Greenville, SC
Sister Karen Rundberg Bunney (Rob) and niece Annika Bunney, all of Bellevue, WA.
Stepchildren, Ryan, Sarah, and Micah Packard (Tyler Vance, preceded him in death in 2012 )
Two Granddaughters, Zoey A. and Taya V.
And many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Please read: “All Is Well” by Henry Scott Holland

Share memories, condolences, and photos of John on the Tribute Wall at emmickfunerals.com/obituary/John-Rundberg

Arrangements entrusted to Emmick Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services of West Seattle

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

When we published this remembrance of Paul Randall (1973-2022) two weeks ago, his family promised an update when the date was set for his Celebration of Life. Now we have the date and place: Sunday, June 19th, 1-4 pm, at Sleight of Hand Cellars in SODO, 3861 1st Avenue South.

Family and friends are remembering Paul Randall and sharing this with his community:

Our beloved Paul has left us far too early. He passed peacefully, and painlessly, in his sleep.

For those that had the privilege of living life with him, he was known for his unmatched humor, his servant leadership, his passion in each endeavor of his life, a vast appreciation for music, and adoration for his cats. He is survived by his wife Vicky, his parents: Mike and Becky Randall, and Joan and Mike Miller, in addition to his sisters Christa, Lyndzie, and Aubree, as well as his brother, Joel and all of siblings’ spouses. He had 12 nieces and nephews that he loved very dearly. His large extended family will miss him intensely. Many friends and family will find celebrating life more difficult, but will no doubt meet the challenge, because that is what Paul would have wanted from us. He would ask that all of us raise a glass of our favorite beverage, and love each other well.

A celebration of life will be planned in the coming weeks. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to kexp.org/donate or paws.org/donate

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

Family and friends will gather April 30th to celebrate the life of Jim Sullivan. Here’s the remembrance they are sharing with his community:

James “Jim” Sullivan lost his 8-year battle with an aggressive form of Parkinson’s Disease on March 15, 2022, just shy of his 69th birthday. All who knew and loved him are so impressed with the grace he showed during the course of his disease and the many life changes it caused. He will be remembered as a hard-working family man with a quick wit and infectious smile.

Jim was born on April 6th, 1953 in Raymond, Washington, to Leoncie and Ray Darling. His birth followed that of his siblings, Linda (1950) and Ray Sullivan (1952), his lifelong best friends and partners in crime. A decade later, his mother remarried and he gained a father in Terry Sullivan. Jim was no longer the baby but became a big brother to his sisters. First came Terri (1963) and soon after Toni (1966), and the family was complete. Jim was born in Raymond but moved to West Seattle as a young boy and was a West Seattleite through and through. Jim lived in the Alki and Arbor Heights neighborhoods growing up and attended school at Alki Elementary, Arbor Heights Elementary, Denny Middle School, and Chief Sealth High School (Class of 1971). Early on, his teachers noticed his artistic talents. The subject he was most interested in and excelled most in was art. After high school, he took art classes at South Seattle College and began life as a starving artist. He rented a studio in Pike Place Market where he would design artwork for bands, magazines, restaurants, and anyone else who would pay! In his years after high school, Jim enjoyed sailing around Puget Sound, hiking, duck hunting, and traveling to visit his sister Linda at her home on the big island of Hawaii.

At 30 years old, Jim met the love of his life, Michelle. They enjoyed many trips to Hawaii, driving their white Fierro around town with their cooler strapped to the back, hunting and spending time with family and friends. A handful of years later, the two got married, bought their home in Arbor Heights, and welcomed the joys of their life, Alexis (1992) and Alana (1994). They bought a commercial space on 35th Avenue and opened Alexis Antiques and held onto the building for years as landlords. The years were filled with projects in the yard, hikes to the community beach, barbecues, Chief Sealth sporting events, his daughter’s softball games, and many laughs.

During all of those busy years, Jim supported his family using his artistic skills as a furniture refinisher and carpenter. In the furniture world, he was known as “Sully.” He worked for various furniture companies in the area, including the Bon Marche, where he started his career, and Room & Board, where he ended his career. Jim was the “antique whisperer” – he could take a banged-up old piece of furniture and bring it back to its original condition. When not working at his full-time job, he was always working on a side project through his business “Sully’s OnSite Furniture Repair.” He worked extremely hard and never complained. His daughters will always remember their dad as a hard worker who would do anything for his family. After years of this work, Jim realized that his speed and ability to prioritize projects at work was deteriorating. He also read an article about a celebrity who was having a hard time brushing their teeth and had noticed changes in handwriting. These were changes Jim had noticed in himself as well, so he reached out to a neurologist. It was in 2014 that his Parkinson’s diagnosis was confirmed, and he retired from Room & Board and sold his commercial real-estate building.

It wasn’t the retirement anyone was hoping for for Jim, but he had many good years. He filled these years with trips to Westport with his family and grand-dogs, Mariners games with his daughter Alexis and her partner Chuck, bike rides, yard work, and working on home improvements with his brother Ray. One of his favorite activities was visiting his daughters at The Original Bakery, where they both worked for many years. The disease was always throwing something new his way. As his disease progressed, Jim was becoming more and more frustrated and depressed. Fortunately in 2019 his daughter Alana and her husband Ruben produced the best Parkinson’s treatment on the market … grandchildren! Jim’s granddaughters Clara and Ella were immediately his new best friends and biggest joys. No matter what his disease was throwing at him, a visit from his granddaughters would turn his day right around. The trips and outings were replaced with walks at Lincoln Park, dance parties, cuddles, barbecues, and pool parties in the yard.

In 2021 after many loving years and making memories as a family, it was time for Jim to receive care outside of the home and give his wife Michelle some much-needed rest from years of around-the-clock caregiving. Jim moved into the Rosewood Adult Family Home in Normandy Park and was treated like family. He loved his caregivers and made many special bonds with them. He raved about the food and enjoyed visits from his family and friends as well as occasional outings. After 6 months and even more progression in his disease, it was time to transition to memory care. Jim was cared for at the Chateau at Valley in Renton for the next 6 months, where they were extremely patient and communicative while his disease continued to complicate life for him.

Jim passed peacefully at Valley Medical Center after an overnight stay. He spent one last night with family and rested overnight with his daughter Alana. Close family members who live locally came to say their goodbyes and he was surrounded by love until the end. It has been a long road with lots of ups and downs, and we are at peace knowing that he passed peacefully, painlessly, and is no longer suffering.

For those of you who loved Jim, we would enjoy your presence at his celebration of life. We will eat, share stories, and enjoy celebrating such a wonderful soul. The celebration will be Saturday, April 30th at his family home from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM. Please reach out to his daughter Alexis Sullivan for further details (alexissullivan318@gmail.com).

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

Family and friends are remembering Steve Fuller, and sharing this remembrance with the community:

It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of Stephen “Steve” Linton Fuller. Born May 23, 1968, in Columbus, Ohio, Steve passed in Seattle on March 25, 2022. He leaves behind his daughters, Anna and Sophia, and their mother Katharine, his brother Michael, and his family, and his parents David and Mary Ann.

Steve graduated from Medina High School in 1986 before participating in the Rotary Student Exchange Program from ’86 to ’87, where he lived in Sweden for a year. He then studied at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, class of 1991, and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in International/Global Studies. He was a 4-year member of the Miami University Glee Club.

After undergrad, he worked with AEISEC and participated in an International Internship in St. Julians, Malta from ’91 to ’93. He continued to travel and even lived in Costa Rica for a few years with his then-wife Katharine. His eldest daughter, Anna, was born in July ’98 while they lived in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Shortly after her birth, Steve enrolled in a Master of Fine Arts program at Savannah College of Art and Design, graduating in 2000. He and his family moved to Seattle in May 2000 and Sophia was born in 2003. Steve joined the Rotary Club of West Seattle and served as Rotary International Chair from 2006 to 2010. He proudly became a 4th generation Rotary Club President in 2010. In December 2011, he led a group to Nepal, serving as the Team Leader for the Rotary Group Study Exchange.

Steve traveled to 40 different countries and lived in at least 6 different states, collecting friends along the way. He was an accomplished artist and collector of art and antiques. Steve enjoyed being in nature, cooking and entertaining, camping, and sailing Puget Sound. There is a Steve-shaped hole in our hearts that cannot be filled. He will be deeply missed. A Memorial Service is planned for late May. Details will be provided on howden-kennedy.com/obituary/Stephen-Fuller. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the West Seattle Rotary Club in honor of Steve. A link to donate will be provided on the website above.

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

Family and friends are remembering Roger Steiner, and sharing this with his community:

Born February 7, 1969, Pocatello, Idaho
Died March 16, 2022, Seattle, age 53
Parents: Gene and Sharon Steiner of Ketchum, Idaho
Husband: Joel Williams of Seattle
Cause of death: Unexpected sudden death in epilepsy

Roger and Joel were together 21 years. The officialdom of their relationship followed the path of same-sex marriage in this state/country. They became Washington State domestic partners in 2007, and when the referendum passed for marriage in this state, the law stipulated that their partnership would roll over into marriage in 2014, which it did. Of course, the US Supreme Court also added their imprimatur somewhere in there as well.

Roger attended schools in Ketchum and Hailey, Idaho, and then switched to The Community School in Sun Valley, Idaho, where he graduated in 1987. He attended Whitman College, graduating in 1991 with a major in history.

Roger’s hometown Ketchum is a unique place, beloved to so many. Roger went to Ernest Hemingway Elementary School. Roger’s brother Eric’s grave is a very few steps away from the Hemingway grave. Growing up in Ketchum is the kind of experience parents dream of giving their children – a closeness to nature that fostered a great love of the outdoors. Roger could hike around the mountains just above the house he grew up in and name the flora and fauna, but he was no match in that sport to his mother Sharon. Ketchum is a tight-knit small town where he knew other people well and where other people knew him, and where bonds of friendship cross generations. Anyone who walked down a Ketchum sidewalk with Roger, even long after he had moved away, would know that there were slim chances of getting more than half a block without running into a longtime friend or acquaintance and stopping for a chat.

Gene owned Chateau Drug in Ketchum, and was the pharmacist there. Roger got a long-lasting “family internship” in running a business, growing up partially in the store. The lessons, the practices he learned there infused his whole life. You have never known such a beloved drugstore, and it modeled the practice of Roger’s future real-estate business – authentic kindness and consideration for other people, meticulous note-keeping, the immediate comfort and safekeeping for the needs of others that he conveyed.

Roger grew up on skis in the winter, wandering around trails and rivers in the summer. His father is a gifted fly fisherman, and Roger learned from the best. He loved to join his father on the streams and lakes and loved to share fishing with others.

In his time spent indoors, Roger grew up loving and playing music and was a good violinist, playing on the instrument his grandfather brought with him when he emigrated from Switzerland. He wrote songs and brightened many gatherings with his playing and singing.

Like his school’s namesake, Hemingway, Roger also loved books and was a lifelong writer, keeping journals, writing restaurant reviews for a Seattle local paper, taking writing classes, and always thinking of ways to share his experiences through literary expression. His writing was sharp, compassionate, and funny, and it left an impression.

After college, he spent time in Ketchum teaching drama at the Community School. He moved to Boise after a short while, worked in restaurants, and, most important of all, continued to grow up with the loving all-but-blood family he found there, friends who are dear and close to this day.

Roger moved to Seattle in 2000. He and Joel met before he even moved here, and were friendly acquaintances until love blossomed in 2001. They lived through experiences like 9/11 and the pandemic together, but also supported one another strongly through career ups and downs and changes, through difficulties with Roger’s epilepsy, and also many long years of being seizure-free. The idea that this condition could lead to this outcome was not a concept for them.

In 2004, they moved to their home in West Seattle, and right around that time, Roger transitioned into the life of a real estate agent and built his business almost entirely from word-of-mouth. His friends referred clients and many of his clients became friends. Their lives together became a kind of Ketchum-on-Puget Sound.

Roger was always physically active, appreciating Seattle on a bike, often walking in Lincoln Park, always up for a group exercise class where he inevitably found friendship and fellowship. Two weeks before his death, Roger skied the entire vertical drop of Bald Mountain at Sun Valley a few times, drew new friends into the loving atmosphere of his childhood home and hometown, and returned to Seattle to help his clients get into and out of the real-estate market with grace and expertise. He will be forever in our hearts, but his physical absence is a void that is very difficult to face.

Celebrations of life will occur in Seattle and Ketchum this summer, dates to be determined.

Roger cared about many people and places. If you are looking for a place to make a memorial donation, consider the Idaho Conservation League, the Seattle YMCA Social Impact Center, and the OutRight Action International LGBTIQ Fund.

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

Thanks to the reader who sent the link to this remembrance announcing the death of Dr. Susanne Gee, a longtime West Seattle dermatologist who had moved to New Mexico in her retirement. Dr. Gee died this week, not long after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. In addition to her practice, she also was active in the local community over years of involvement with the Rotary Club of West Seattle. Dr. Gee’s memorial is set for April 4th at Sunset Hills Funeral Home in Bellevue.

Family and friends will gather March 25th for a Funeral Mass in memory of Dorothy Neal. Here’s the remembrance they’re sharing now:

Dorothy Neal joined her husband Jim and son Jimmy in heaven on February 25th, leaving behind a legacy of love.

She was born on June 9, 1924, to Louis Joseph and Hannah Murdoch Blanchard in Seattle. She was raised in South Park, the 9th of 10 children. A fondness of dancing the Jitterbug and Swing attracted her to the “best dancer in Ballard,” Jim Neal, and the two married in 1944. The family moved to Vashon in May 1951 and spent many happy years grilling salmon, singing around the fire, reading stories, and dancing. She worked as a librarian for the Vashon Island School District and she received her BA from CWU in 1984. Along with skiing, jogging, and boating, Dorothy was a gifted artist, seamstress, and puppeteer; and crafted over 250 marionettes for her traveling show, “The Theater of the Little People.” The show went on tour in Washington and BC.

The passing of her son Jimmy and suffering from breast cancer were two tribulations that had a huge effect on Dorothy but attested to her tenacity, faith, and spirit. She spent her later years working for daughter Shelley at her preschool and was known for her loving presence, hand-painted cookies, and the way she made each child feel special and loved. She was called Grandma Dorothy by all.

She lives on through her family, students, and friends whom she affected greatly with her positivity and living life to its fullest. Dorothy leaves behind her sister Irene Dufort, her five children Kathy Winge (Carl), Joe Neal, Diane Kukull (Walter), Teresa Walsh (John), Shelley Neal (Ralph), 18 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, 6 great-great-grandchildren. There will be a Rosary said Thursday, March 24th at 7 pm at the Island Funeral Service and a Funeral Mass celebrated by Rev. David Mayovsky at St. John Vianney, Friday, March 25th at 11 am. A luncheon will follow. Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery in Seattle Saturday morning. Remembrances in Dorothy’s name can be sent to Providence Mt. St. Vincent Foundation, where she was lovingly cared for the last years of her life, 4831 35th Ave SW, Seattle 98126.

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

Family and friends are remembering Yvette A. Laughlin, and sharing this remembrance with her community:

Yvette Anna Laughlin passed away peacefully on February 24 with her daughters by her side, holding her hands.

Yvette was born March 27, 1938, near Poitiers, France, the oldest of five siblings. She grew up on a small farm in the French countryside, and in 1961, she married and moved to Seattle with her husband and first child. She lived in West Seattle the remainder of her life.

She was French through and through but was also fiercely proud to be a naturalized citizen of the United States. She never missed a voting day and instilled in her children a duty to vote as well.

She was beautiful, outgoing, and she never met a stranger. She loved young people and stayed younger by hanging out with them. She was always willing to lend a hand to help anyone that needed assistance and supported many causes to help those less fortunate, people and animals alike. Her faith in God sustained her through many difficult times.

Her love of gardening was always on display every spring and summer when neighbors would stop by her yard just to see what was new that year.

She is survived by her children Betty Laughlin (Pierre LaRochelle), Steve Laughlin (Suzanne Nielsen), and Michelle Laughlin, and by her siblings, Andre Maillochot (Simone), Bernard Maillochot, Michelle Maillochot, and Remy Maillochot, as well as nieces and nephews in France.

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