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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You will always be loved and missed dearly, Buggie.

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

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

Ronald Frederick Marshall

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Patrick James Almquist (“Almy”)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank all of you for befriending and loving our Paul.

Please visit his Memory Page at klontzfuneralhome.com

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

Family and friends are remembering Charles David Draper, Sr., and sharing this remembrance with his community:

A Life Well Led

On Wednesday, October 13, 2021, Charles David Draper Senior, husband of his one and only woman Glee for 74 years, father of three, Granddaddy of 12, Great Granddaddy of nine, and Great Great granddaddy of one, passed away quietly with his wife by his side and daughter Marlee holding his hand.

He was 96 years old.

Charles, born August 6, 1925 in Seattle, was the only child of Frank Hugh and Marian Gertrude Sprengle Draper. He grew up on Ida Street and roamed the forest of West Seattle and Lincoln Park in the 1930s. Charles excelled at any physical activity and hiked the mountains and streams for his love of fishing. As a young boy, Charlie worked at Draper Engine Works for his dad and grandfather, Charles David Draper I. He graduated from West Seattle High School and continued to work at “the shop” (eventually named Draper Machine Works), where he designed and created many innovations for the boating, fishing, and lumber industry as well as fixing problems of building mechanics, such as the Space Needle. He joined the Navy during World War II, where he used his talents as a machinist at Guadalcanal. He was in charge of the boat motor pool, keeping them running and piloting small craft and landing craft and Captain’s gig. Upon his return to the states, he began his University of Washington studies in mechanical engineering. His tenor voice blossomed from his early years in the church choir to sing professionally from the 1940s until 2002, when a stroke affected his vocal cords. As an exceptional artist, as well as a perfectionist, Chuck would explain anything with a pencil in hand. Whether it be a machine design, or a how-to in the machine shop, sports, music, building or designing anything… there was always a napkin nearby to explain for an understanding.

His golf career began in 1954 and ended with a total of 35 hole-in-one’s. He excelled in rating golf courses of western states down the coast through California. He had the vision to bring public and private courses together organizing tournaments. A highlight of his career was the Junior Golf Association for youth, emphasizing etiquette and sportsmanship in golf.

He is remembered by all as multi-talented with exceptional ability for retaining information. His research and knowledge of the Lake Washington Federal Ship Canal, as well as golf-course details, reflected his constant search for truth.

Chuck had a special love for the church and serving the Lord with his talents. He attended youth groups and led many sing-alongs with a dramatic flair. At one youth function, his eyes were drawn to a quiet beauty, Glee Patten, who he soon married. They raised their little family: Kristine Glee, Charles David III, and Marlyne Annette, one block from his childhood home, on Holden Street and still attended his church, where he continued with choir, quartets, artistic endeavors like Christmas murals, and became a leader and a mentor. Here, he brought young men a chance to learn and flourish through Boy Scouts. His Bible, full of sticky notes, is a visual reminder of his determination to seek God’s purpose and fulfill God’s plan.

He has left his autograph on each of our lives.

(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 October 30th to remember Brad Wilson. Here’s the remembrance they’re sharing with his community:

Brad Wilson – 11/7/50 – 10/5/21

Brad Wilson passed away peacefully with his family by his side on October 5, 2021.

He was born Milton Bradley Wilson on November 7, 1950 to Milton and Edna Wilson. He used to love telling kids at school that he was part of the Milton Bradley game empire. He was a lifelong and die-hard West Seattleite, attending Lafayette Elementary, Madison Middle, West Seattle High School, and South Seattle Community College, where he graduated with an automotive degree. Starting in 1969, he served 6 years as a Medic in the Army Reserves.

He worked as a District Manager for Borg Warner Auto Parts for 30+ years. He was a car lover and owned many nice cars throughout the years. He knew everything there is to know about cars and family and friends would always seek his advice when it came to car shopping. His passions in life included traveling, real estate, cars, cooking and fine dining, playing the organ, watching TV, and enjoying a fine vodka martini.

He always enjoyed real estate, and when he retired from Borg Warner he became a real estate agent for a few years. He also enjoyed watching cooking shows, and loved cooking gourmet meals for family and friends. He had many wonderful vacations with family and friends as well. He went out of his way to make sure everyone had the best of everything, whether that was traveling accommodations, food, cars, or etc. He always researched extensively and never settled for second best. One of his favorite sayings was “my idea of roughing it is slow room service.”

He was a wonderful husband and generous & selfless provider to the love of his life, Julie Dodge Wilson, and father to his beloved sons Jeff and Scott.

Brad leaves behind his wife Julie, sons Jeff (Courtney) and Scott, and sister Sharon Wilson LaFarge. We were beyond blessed to have him in our lives.

Celebration of Life services will be held at 1 pm on 10/30/21 at Trinity West Seattle, 7551 35th Ave SW.

Please share memories and photos with Brad’s family on the Tribute Page at: emmickfunerals.com/obituary/Bradley-Wilson

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

Family and friends will gather next Monday to remember Danny Thomas, and are sharing this remembrance with the community:

In Memory of Danny Thomas

Daniel “Danny” Wayne Thomas, born November 20, 1956 in Seattle, departed this world on September 19, 2021 in Seattle at the age of 64.

He is survived by his brother Gene Thomas; aunts May Mcbane and Beverly Prickett; cousin Mary Gaskill-Clyne; and his many first and second cousins and extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents Ellis and Irene Thomas.

Danny will be remembered fondly for his kindness, love, and loyalty, and he will be sincerely missed by all who know and love him.

A memorial service for Danny is scheduled for 10:15 AM on October 25, 2021 at Forest Lawn Funeral Home & Cemetery at 6701 30th Ave SW in West Seattle.

He will be interred beside his mother and father at Riverton Crest Cemetery at 3400 South 140th Street in Tukwila at twelve o’clock noon, October 25, 2021. The funeral service will be officiated by Pastor Father Woodland of St. Philomena.

*Wearing a mask is required during the memorial and funeral services.

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

Family and friends will gather this Saturday (October 16th) to celebrate the life of Heidi Wargel. Here’s the announcement:

Please help us Celebrate the Life of Heidi Wargel this Saturday, October 16th at Jellyfish Brewing in Georgetown. Heidi was a proud West Seattle-ite the past 10+ years, an amazing physical therapist, friend, and wife, and she truly lived life to its fullest before losing her battle with cancer on July 15th this year. She is dearly missed but will never be forgotten.

Full details below:

Jellyfish Brewing
917 S Nebraska St.
Seattle, WA 98108

Here is the schedule for the day:

12:30 pm – venue will open for all guests attending in person
1:00 pm – the more formal portion of the day will begin
2 to 4 pm – the entire brewery is ours with an open bar and snacks provided
4 pm – the brewery will start to open to the general public, but we are welcome to stay as long as we like
5:30 pm – Seattle Sounders watch party – the Sounders are playing the Houston Dynamo and everyone is welcome to attend

COVID Protocols:
We humbly request that if you choose to attend in person that you are vaccinated
The venue is indoor/outdoor with large doors that will likely be open. We recommend that you bring a good jacket or layers to accommodate for being inside/outside

From Jellyfish Brewing:
COVID policy – We strictly abide by and enforce all COVID requirements/mandates. Currently, regardless of vaccination status, all patrons are required to wear a mask while indoors, unless seated. This means, no matter where you are in the facility, a mask must be worn, unless seated. So standing with a drink and mingling inside is not possible (but outside is okay).

The outdoor area is covered and heated, but truth be told, the heating isn’t going to keep anyone toasty warm.

Any questions can be sent to jrwargel@gmail.com; thank you, everyone, for the outpouring of support during this time.

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

Family and friends are remembering Debra Miles-Olofson, and sharing this remembrance with her community:

Debra Y. Miles-Olofson – November 19, 1950 – September 11, 2021

Debra Y. Miles-Olofson passed away on September 11, 2021, following a 16-month battle with inflammatory breast cancer. Her family hadn’t left her side in days; they read her letters and emails from loved ones, rubbed her feet, and hosted visitors. Debra was the kind of person who always showed up, no matter what—for her family, her friends, and her clients. In celebrating her life, we show up for each other and all those who mourn her—just as she would have done for us.

Debra was born on November 19, 1950, in Seattle, Washington to Harry and Patricia Yerg. Her childhood was a happy one, surrounded by her three sisters and cousins. She was a smart, ambitious kid with a big personality. From an early age, she was determined to do great things with her life. Throughout the years, those ambitions met challenges. Debra had her first daughter shortly after high school. But she took on motherhood with commitment and grace. Debra was a single parent for most of Jennifer and Dene’s childhood, yet she never wavered in the strength and enthusiasm she showed in parenting. She was fiercely devoted to her girls and loved being a mom.

Debra took courses at South Seattle College and started working as a bank teller at Seafirst Bank on Capitol Hill. Coworkers and customers were drawn to Debra for her warmth and her sharp wit. She worked hard, and she raised her daughters to know that you should always be able to take care of yourself.

At 48, Debra discovered real estate and fell in love with the industry; she’d found her calling. Her feisty personality and tireless work ethic helped her establish a glowing reputation as a trusted broker in the community. Despite the 24/7 nature of the job, she never missed a call or a meeting—she was exceptional. Debra worked at Prudential for 2 years, then moved to John L. Scott, where she maintained her stellar commitment to clients until she was too sick to do so. It wasn’t surprising that so many of her clients became good friends.

On July 24, 2004, Debra met Ken Olofson at Endolyne Joe’s in West Seattle; both of them were sitting at the bar and noticed each other. “There’s something about you that’s different,” she told him in that first conversation. It was an encounter that changed both of their lives, and they were together from that day forward, marrying on August 8, 2021 in an intimate ceremony at their home. Ken called their relationship magic; she’d made him a better man.

Debra became Grandma Debbie when her first granddaughter Olivia was born in 2005. She adored being “Grandma” to Olivia and Sophia and her presence in their lives was constant. Throughout grade school and middle school, she was there every morning to make breakfast and lunches and drive them to and from school. The three of them cherished their time together, and fostered a special bond. Whenever mom and dad needed a night off, Grandma Debbie came over. She even let the girls have their friends over for sleepovers which she hosted with all of her Grandma Debbie-style energy. She took great care of the granddogs, too.

Debra was committed to her work—but she was even more committed to her grandkids’ sporting events. She loved cheering from the sidelines at soccer, basketball, volleyball and baseball games. Every coach, player, and parent knew Grandma Debbie, and the energy she brought to those games was contagious.

Nature gave her a great sense of peace. She loved hiking with her daughter Dene, and she took many trips to places like Zion National Park, Maui, Bryce Canyon, and the Columbia River Gorge where she could be outside and soak in the beauty of the wilderness. She and Dene shared a similar sense of humor, and their time together was often filled with uncontrollable laughter as best friends do.

Lake Roosevelt held a special place in Debra’s heart, spending time on the water with Jennifer, Eric, Olivia, and Sophia. Those lake days were filled with boat rides, walks on the beach, hummingbird watching, and playing cards with the girls. Debra worked so hard for so much of her life, but Lake Roosevelt is where she could really relax and enjoy herself. Whether they were a few miles away or at the same house, Debra and Jennifer talked every day. They were each other’s greatest support—mother and daughter but also best friends.

Ken and Debra loved to travel; their favorite place was Harrison Hot Springs in Canada where they’d treat themselves to delicious meals, massages, and relaxing dips in the warm water. It meant a lot to Debra that after struggling to make ends meet for so long, she could finally afford to indulge a little. The two recently purchased a beautiful ranch house in eastern Washington where the mountains look over their home.

On May 29, 2020, Debra was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer. The news was devastating, but she faced it with relentless grit and optimism. Jennifer, Dene, and Ken were there with her every step of the way. Debra and her family leaned on faith in getting through the harder days; they found the more they needed it, the stronger it became. The family prayed together often, and in that faith, their bonds became stronger, too.

Debra’s spirit was the kind that sticks with people. She will be remembered in those moments that brought her the most joy: playing board games with her grandkids; taking long walks with her daughters; and watching sunsets on the back deck of her home with Ken. She found her true love later in life, but she always felt lucky for the love that surrounded her—for the unwavering bonds she had with her daughters and grandkids. In her family, she’d found greatness. She was our rock; our biggest cheerleader; and our beloved daughter, mother, wife, grandmother, sister, and friend.

Debra is survived by her husband, Kenneth G. Olofson; her two daughters Dene Miles and Jennifer (Eric) Moe; her granddaughters Olivia and Sophia; her mother, Patricia Yerg; sisters Marlin (Gary), Patrice, and Lisa (Bob); brother-in-laws Carl and Chris (Laura); sister-in-laws Caryn (Michael) and Carol; and dozens of nieces and nephews.

Debra was committed to involving herself in multiple charities over the years. Memorial donations can be made to Debra’s favorite charities: St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, Sage Patient Advocates, and Inflammatory Breast Cancer International Consortium

A special thank you to Steve Kandel of Sage Patient Advocates who was our guardian angel during Debra’s battle with cancer. His compassion, support, guidance and knowledge helped not only Debra but her family through her illness.

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

Family and friends will gather Sunday to celebrate the life of Leslie W. Lynch. Here’s the remembrance they’re sharing with the community:

Leslie Walter Lynch passed away on May 11, 2021, surrounded by loved ones.

He was an (almost) lifelong resident of West Seattle, eldest child of Dixie Fisher and Leslie Lynch, big brother to James, Michael, Julie, Patrick, and Sean. Les attended WSHS, Class of ’69, and began his career with Seattle City Light in 1981. Les and Joyce (Armitstead) married in 1981 and he became a proud father to Ryan, Erin, and Kelli. Les was also a loving uncle to James Lynch and Travis and Leslie Greenfield.

He enjoyed being a member of the local community and utilized his passion for sports by coaching soccer and little league baseball for many years. A lover of animals and children, he enjoyed spending time with his great-niece and -nephews Brooklyn, MJ, Logan, and Liam and being surrogate “Grumpa” to Micheal. Les was elated about the arrival of his own grandchild as Ryan and Jutarat welcomed Marshawn Lynch to the family in March 2021. Les was loved by many and will be remembered for his big heart and bawdy sense of humor.

There will be a celebration of life event on Sunday, October 10th, 2021 at the Auburn Community & Event Center from 1 pm-5 pm; all who knew him are invited to attend. Masks will be required and vaccines appreciated.

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

Family and friends will gather next month to remember Dick McBrady. Here’s the remembrance they’re sharing with the community:

Richard Joseph “Dick” McBrady
1933 ~ 2021

Dick passed away at home on the morning of July 17th with his wife, Paula, at his side. He went to be with his Lord and Savior after battling Vascular Dementia.

He was the middle child of Joe and Millie McBrady, born on 10/21/1933. He grew up in Ballard and graduated from O’Dea High School. While attending Seattle University, he was drafted into the Army in 1957, the same year he married Geri Rosholt. They had 2 sons, Greg and Kevin.

Dick worked many years at Sears and Roebuck and sold so many suits in the 1st and Lander Men’s Department that Corporate visited him to see what he was doing. Dick was a born salesman. He went on to work in the Garden and Pet Industry for many years.

He married the Love of his life, Paula Tunison, on November 5, 1977. They moved to Wenatchee after opening a pet store, Village Pets, which they owned for over 20 years. They moved back to Seattle and Dick worked for his brother, John, in his business O’Rings West.

Dick loved to dance and he and Paula danced every week of their 43-year marriage until Covid started. He was always positive, ready with a smile and fun to be with. If a Party hadn’t started, it did when Dick walked in the room. He loved life, he loved his Family, his Faith, his Friends and his many pets over the years.

He is survived by his wife Paula, sons Greg (Katy) and Kevin, granddaughters Qwynn and Anna, his brother John and his wife Sandi, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Sheila.

Donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or CHI Franciscan/VM Hospice. Many thanks to Comfort Keepers for their loving care of Dick.

Inurnment Memorial Service & Army Funeral Honors will be at Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent at 10:30 am on October 21, 2021.

To share your condolences and memories of Dick with family and friends, please visit his Tribute Wall at EmmickFunerals.com/obituary/Richard-McBrady

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

Two and a half weeks after the family of artist and Junction entrepreneur Frances Smersh announced her death, the date is set for memorial gatherings. Here’s the announcement:

Funeral and Celebration of Life services for Frances Smersh will be held Friday, October 15.

Funeral Service begins at 11 am at St. Joseph Parish, 732 18th Ave E (Capitol Hill — parking entrance on 19th Ave E)
Celebration of Life begins at 3 pm at The Hall at Fauntleroy, 9131 California Ave SW (West Seattle — parking entrance on SW Director St.)

Masks will be required at both venues. Guests over 12 years old must be fully vaccinated.

There will be light appetizers and a no-host bar at the memorial celebration beginning at 3p. To help us plan appropriately, RSVP is required for the Celebration of Life no later than September 30 to teamsmersh15@gmail.com. No RSVP is necessary for the Funeral Service at the church.

In the style of Frances (who always made very not-fancy yet fun arrangements for guests), we invite you to bring a small “bouquet” of whatever happens to be growing in your yard, even if it is just grasses and dandelions! We will be creating an impromptu garden altar at both the church and the hall. Volunteers will be on hand to place them.

We are allowing extra time to get from Capitol Hill to West Seattle in light of the bridge closure. If you arrive in West Seattle early please wait to enter the hall as we will need time to set up.

A livestream is planned – the link will be available soon on this website.

Family and friends are remembering Irene W. McCoy and sharing this remembrance with the community:

It is with sadness that the family of Irene W. McCoy share news of Irene’s death on September 10, 2021 at the age of 94. As a long-time resident of Des Moines, WA and West Seattle, a teacher in the Seattle and Highline Public School Districts, and a faithful member of Tibbetts United Methodist Church, Irene was loved by all who knew her.

Born Irene W. Martin on December 25, 1926 in Liverpool, England, she grew up with three sisters and a brother. She enjoyed a happy childhood even though her pre-teen and teen years were greatly affected by World War II, including the consistent bombing of Liverpool and the rationing of food, gasoline and other common items.

Irene became an elementary school teacher and taught both in England and the USA. In 1955 she came to the USA as a participant in a one-year teacher exchange program sponsored by the Fulbright Teacher Exchange. She taught at Gatewood Elementary School in West Seattle. Two teachers from West Seattle met Irene in New York City to welcome her to America. One was Dean McCoy. In 1956 she returned to England, where she continued teaching; in 1957 she emigrated to the USA to marry Dean and thus began a happy marriage of 47 years.

Irene is survived by her daughters and son: Dr. Jennifer McCoy; Ellen Johanson; Clive McCoy; her granddaughter Rachel Johanson; as well as nieces, nephews and cousins in England and the USA.

A private graveside service for family members will be held at Mountain View Funeral Home and Memorial Park in Lakewood, WA and a Celebration of Life Service will be held at a date, yet to be determined, at Wesley Retirement Community in Des Moines, WA. Preceded in death by her beloved husband, parents and four siblings, Irene has lived a joyful and complete life. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that tribute gifts may be made to Wesley Community Foundation, wesleychoice.org, or Tibbetts United Methodist Church, tibbettsumchurch.org in her memory.

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

In June, family, friends, and community members mourned 96-year-old West Seattle philanthropist Adah June Cruzen. Now the date has been set for her memorial. According to trustee Sharon Siva, the gathering in memory of Ms. Cruzen is planned for 11 am Saturday, October 16th, at Fauntleroy Church (9140 California SW). A reception will follow, across the street at The Hall at Fauntleroy (9131 California SW) until 3 pm. Masks will be required.

Family and friends are remembering Dr. Paul Smits and sharing this remembrance with the community:

Longtime West Seattle dentist, Paul Kari Smits, of Bellevue, passed away in Seattle on September 10th from complications of prostate cancer; he fought the disease courageously for ten years.

He was born in 1941 to Paul Aire Smits, DDS, and Ina Kari Smits and grew up in Aberdeen, WA.

He attended the University of Washington and graduated from the University of Washington School of Dentistry in 1966. He served in the U.S. Army at Fort Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska, for two years and, while there, met his future wife, Joyce (Becker) Smits. He then served two years in the Army Reserve while establishing his private dental practice in West Seattle. Paul cared for his patients for over 45 years, becoming friends with many.

Paul loved spending time outdoors with Joyce and their three sons, especially on the ski slopes. An avid photographer, he documented everything from their travels in the U.S. and around the world, to his grandchildren’s sporting events and celebrations. He was quick to laugh and tell a story and will always be remembered for his warm, friendly personality and dedication to his family and patients.

Paul is loved and will be forever missed by Joyce, his wife for over 50 years; sons Tyler, Ryan, and Kyle, and their wives Lori, Christina, and Jessica; grandchildren Gavin, Audrey, Ella, and Lily, all of whom live in the Seattle area; sister Karen (Morgan Kari) of Woodland Hills, CA; brother- and sister-in-law René and Jan Robert of San Ramon, CA and their family; and his many friends.

His family would like to thank the doctors and many other Virginia Mason caregivers who provided medical care and compassion to Paul.

Donations in memory of Paul may be made to Zero Cancer at zerocancer.org or a charity of your choice.

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

Family and friends are remembering “Snookie” Gardanar and sharing this remembrance with the community:

Ragna “Snookie” Eleanor Gardanar passed away on September 3rd, 2021, at the age of 77.

She was born on May 24th, 1944, at Virginia Mason Hospital in Seattle. She was the youngest of 2 kids. She is survived by her 3 kids Duane, Greg, and Karie; grandkids Kelsie, Bradley, Ava, Owen, and Benjamin; and great-grandchild Marcus.

Snookie went to school in West Seattle; Highland Park Elementary, Denny Junior High, Sealth High School, and South Seattle CC. Mom lived most of her life in West Seattle, then moved to Kent. She retired from Allied Solutions and DSHS as a clerical specialist. Mom’s favorite job was working for Bogle & Gates Law Firm in Seattle.

Mom loved music, spending time with family, watching Seahawk games, going to the ocean, walking on the beach and hanging out on the balcony feeding seagulls she always named Jonathon. Mom loved dogs, especially “Lady” and most all other poodles. She loved Bingo, Solitaire, and Rummy. Mom checked off a bucket-list item when she traveled to Memphis to visit Elvis Presley’s memorial – she loved that trip.

Snookie was a loving Mother and Grandmother to her children and grandchild, who will miss her dearly. “WE LOVE YOU, MOM & MAMA!!!”

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

Howard Martin will be remembered with a virtual memorial on September 22nd. Here’s the remembrance his family is sharing with his community:

Howard Martin, 77, died on August 10, 2021 with his wife and daughter by his side, after living with the aftereffects of a stroke, including dementia, for 8 years.

Born in New York City, Howard moved many times before settling in Seattle, where he lived for the past 36 years. He studied Political Science at UCLA and received a MSW from USC. His work spanned teaching, counseling, acting, cab-driving, nonprofit management, political organizing, and retail until his retirement in 2013.

Howard moved to West Seattle in 1992, and embraced this community — especially his neighborhood, Blockwatch32 in the Luna Park/Avalon area. He served on the Delridge Neighborhood Development Association Board, worked for Neighborhood House in White Center, met up regularly with dog-park friends at Westcrest, and was among the first hires at the Home Depot on Delridge, where he worked preceding his stroke and eventual retirement. He participated in Providence Mt. St. Vincent’s Eldercare Program and enjoyed the attention and excellent care he received.

He is preceded in death by his parents Ruth and Peter, daughter Naomi, and stepfather Earl (longtime West Seattleite Earl Robinson). He is survived by wife Marcia, daughter Kata, brother Michael, and many family members and friends.

He will be remembered for his perennial wit, humor, and warmth, and by his online alias, HowieInSeattle. A virtual memorial will be held on 9/22 @ 3 pm — email howmartin@msn.com for details.

Remembrances may be made to Delridge Neighborhood Development Association.

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