Former port commissioner Jack Block dies

| Obituaries | West Seattle news

A well-known West Seattleite has died: Former Seattle Port Commissioner Jack Block. A moment of silence was held in his memory as current Seattle and Tacoma port commissioners gathered online for today’s Northwest Seaport Alliance managing-members meeting. You might know Mr. Block as the namesake of the port-owned Jack Block Park in West Seattle, which was renamed in his honor in 2001, three years after it opened as Terminal 5 Park. Mr. Block is a former longshore worker who was elected to the Port Commission in 1973 and served until 2001; the port says he was its longest-serving commissioner, adding, “Throughout his life he always supported working people, free trade, and those who needed help most in our communities.” This 1986 Journal of Commerce profile notes some of Mr. Block’s accomplishments, including rising to union leadership at a relatively young age. Mr. Block, who lived in Fauntleroy with wife Vicki Schmitz Block, was 86 years old. Emmick Family Funeral Home (WSB sponsor) is handling arrangements, which are still in progress.

Alex November 3, 2020 (4:43 pm)

There will be so many things to miss about Jack Block. Teller of tall tales that were amazingly true, salmon fisherman generous to share, dog lover, loyal Democrat and all around nice guy. Jack took an interest in the next generation and was a good neighbor. Wherever Jack Block is now, I hope there are cold Alaska waters, a raft and a fishing pole close by.

Mrs. A November 4, 2020 (3:44 pm)

Very sorry to hear of this passing. The sentiments by Alex are very kind. My husband, I and kids enjoy biking to Jack Block park – it is one of the best places to see the city, feel the ocean breeze, watch the ships, and hear seals barking from nearby bouys.

Heidi Wallace November 12, 2020 (9:26 am)

My Dad was the Best! As kids we would campaign for him in downtown Seattle, holding signs and reciting,” This is my dad vote for him on Tuesday!” We spent days, weeks endless times hand addressing flyers destined for potential voters in Seattle. It was hard work but it help instill a wok ethic and civic duty in us Block kids.He taught me to fish, tie a hook and cure salmon eggs. I caught my first steelhead when I was five. I still can see my pole bend and hear the reel whir.My Father taught me many things and I will forever be grateful for the lessons learned. I know he is in Heaven now with my Grandpa George, Grandma Mazie and Mom, Fran. I picture him smiling with that ever present twinkle in his eyes, his curly hair blowing in the breeze as he stands by a river, pole in hand , laughing with delight as he brings in yet another steelhead. RIP Pop! We have the Watch now.

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