Remembering West Seattle realtor, Seafair Commodore JB Webster

Longtime West Seattleite J.B. Webster has died, friends tell WSB. He was known for many things — as a Seafair Commodore (they have a brief tribute graphic on their website right now and you can see him in Commodore jacket here), as a Keller Williams realtor, as an alumnus of West Seattle High School, where he played football. He also was involved with the West Seattle Hi-Yu Summer Festival. The memorial for Mr. Webster is next Tuesday (4/28) at Alki UCC, 11 am (61st and Hinds; map). We’re expecting to receive his obituary later today and will add it here when it’s available.

ADDED FRIDAY AFTERNOON: The short obituary, e-mailed to WSB:

JB Webster, longtime West Seattle Real Estate Agent, passed away on April 22, 2009. Also known as “Call JB First,” will be greatly missed by his family, wife Christi & their children Tyler, Logan and older son Eli along with his many friends. JB’s service will be held on Tuesday April 28th, 2009 @ 11 am. Location: Alki Congregational United Church of Christ, 6115 SW Hinds
St. Seattle, WA 98116. There will be a light reception following the service.

ADDED SUNDAY: If you haven’t already seen it, this followup includes a link to a fund for JB Webster’s family. Also, friends have asked us to add these photos of Mr. Webster and family – here he is with wife Christi:

And from left, with his kids – Tyler, Logan, Eli & JB:

71 Replies to "Remembering West Seattle realtor, Seafair Commodore JB Webster"

  • Eliza Junkerman April 23, 2009 (2:49 pm)

    JB is very missed. He was a great man who spread his energy and humor everywhere he went. He was a man who was extremely generous with his time; he spent countless hours volunteering for his community and was someone who we should strive to be like. Spending time with him was a complete privileged and I feel so lucky to have known him.
    My thoughts are with his family.

  • Stacey April 23, 2009 (3:18 pm)

    Oh, that’s to bad. :( I remember working with him YEARS ago in Escrow. He was a ball of positive energy! We are a lucky community to have had the privlege to enjoy him! He will be missed.

  • Robyn Strobeck April 23, 2009 (3:22 pm)

    I am so sorry.. JB is a great memory for me because he was always smiling and encouraging to others. He will be missed.Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.

  • Matt Durham April 23, 2009 (3:39 pm)

    JB always impressed me with his kindness and creative energy. JB made people feel like they can take on the world.
    My heart goes out to his family; truly a loss for all of us.
    Sincerely,
    Matt Durham

  • Tiara Andress April 23, 2009 (3:43 pm)

    I am not sad, I am happy…that I got to be a part of this fabulous man’s life. He was an inspiration and a source of optimism for all that encountered him. In times of unsurety, he was a rock. He WAS “Mr. West Seattle” and will forever be in my heart and memories! My love and prayers go out to Christi, Eli, Tyler, and Logan. =)

  • Shannon April 23, 2009 (4:56 pm)

    I barely knew J.B. We sat on the sidelines of our sons’ basketball games this winter sharing parent banter. However, even in this brief introduction it is clear that J.B. was immensely proud of his family. He had a joyful and infectious spirit and I’m so glad I had the opportunity to meet him and know him for this brief time. Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.

  • Joe Cohn April 23, 2009 (4:59 pm)

    JB was a great supporter of the Madison Girls Basketball team. (I coached the last 2-years.) JB attended all of the games and was such an enthusiastic parent. I really appreciated his presence and support.

    Christi and Family – I am sorry for your loss.

  • The Gregor Family April 23, 2009 (5:44 pm)

    We too are very sad at this tremendous loss but feel happy to have known JB for as long as we have. We will always remember his big smile and kind, friendly conversation. Our thoughts are with you Christi, Tyler and Logan. xoxo The Gregors

  • Deanne April 23, 2009 (6:01 pm)

    My Special Friend JB

    I will miss you – your very essence brightened up a cloudy day in Seattle.

    I’ve known JB for years and he never failed at anything that had to do with human relations. He loved connecting people. JB has enriched my life by his caring of all people and his unconditional friendship to me.

    I will miss him deeply AND never forget him.

  • Bruce B. April 23, 2009 (6:44 pm)

    Some weeks, JB would seem to be everywhere–involved. ALWAYS with a smile, often with a camera taking one-hand shots of the people and action at Chamber events or picnics or wherever fun could be found. Well regarded in business, obviously passionate about family and community–you could tell he loved people. JB will be missed by many and for many different reasons.

  • Irene April 23, 2009 (6:59 pm)

    JB … always upbeat, always cheerful, always active, and always caring for his family, friends and community. We were on the Chamber board, and later on the WSHS Foundation board, together. Last time I saw JB, he was cheering on his daughter Tyler at ArtsWest’s production of Pippin (Tyler had a great role!). We will miss him very much.

  • carrieann April 23, 2009 (7:02 pm)

    I did not have the pleasure of meeting him, but from reading these comments, I can tell he was quite a wonderful person. My thoughts and condolences go out to his family and friends.

  • Liv Browning April 23, 2009 (7:25 pm)

    JB often said of others… “they’re such a Bright Light.” When in fact, he was the bright light. He was a wonderful, generous man who loved his family deeply, and gave freely of his energy and spirit. I’m so very honored to have known him.

  • Lise McGowan April 23, 2009 (7:26 pm)

    JB is someone who literally embraced life and the people around him… both with his words of kindness and humor… and hugs!!!! He absolutely adored his wife Christy and children. JB will be missed by so many. My prayers are with you.

  • Gayle McIntosh April 23, 2009 (8:40 pm)

    Dear Christi, Tyler, and Logan,
    We know that JB’s love and spirit will always be with you, and are keeping you close in our thoughts and prayers.
    Love, Gayle and Aubrey

  • Dana Keller April 23, 2009 (8:51 pm)

    I worked with JB through the WS Chamber. Great guy, wonderful family–he had so much energy and brought such positivity to everything and everyone he touched. He will be greatly missed. My prayers for his family.

  • JH April 23, 2009 (10:56 pm)

    JB was an amazing person. I met him back in the Schmitz Park days when our kids went there. He was always so positive and so much fun to be around! He had a great sense of humor. He absolutely loved his family-and he loved telling everyone! Christi and the kids were so lucky to have him. He had amazing positive energy, and it was contagious. He will be missed. My thoughts are with his family.

  • Gloriana Morine April 23, 2009 (11:03 pm)

    JB was a helluva guy. I first met him at the WS Chamber. He made sure I got connected. He was intent on everyone’s happiness – always positive and a complete joy to be around… I am so sorry Christi, Eli, Tyler & Logan… He loved you all so much and always spoke so lovingly of each of you… May you find peace in his memory… Gloriana

  • The Dightman Family April 24, 2009 (7:23 am)

    The few interactions we had with JB were blessings. We never saw him without a smile and something nice and positive to say. Our prayers and support go out to the family.
    The Dightmans

  • JB was wonderful April 24, 2009 (8:10 am)

    I am so sad to see this. I worked with JB briefly at Keller Williams. He was so kind and upbeat and a true example as a realtor. He was older than most of us but you never knew it. My heart goes out to his family at this difficult time. I can say JB did make quite a difference in the world. He will be greatly missed.

  • Tom Lyon April 24, 2009 (8:46 am)

    It was truly an honor to have known JB for many years. He dedicated himself to the welfare of others, wholeheartedly and with joy. He lightened
    others lives with his enthusiasm and support.
    In this sad time it is good to acknowledge the positive message of his life, and to remember all of the love and joy which he left behind. He was an excellent man who led an excellent life.
    My prayers are with him and his family.
    Tom Lyon

  • James Mahler April 24, 2009 (10:51 am)

    JB was one of the first persons I met when I moved to West Seattle. He was welcoming, friendly, and willing to help any way he could. He held a leadership position in our office, but more than that he was a husband and father. JB was a man involved in several community groups and touched the lives of many. I will miss his positive energy, smile and friendship.

  • Denise Lathrop and Andy and Della Norton April 24, 2009 (11:39 am)

    Christi, Tyler, Logan and Eli,

    JB will be sorely missed by the many lives he touched. He was such a generous and positive person to be around. He made each person feel special and I will miss his “hey beautiful” greeting. You are all in our thoughts.

    Love, Denise, Andy and Della Norton

  • Tom Warnke April 24, 2009 (1:47 pm)

    JB was a very good friend and he will be truly missed by us all. He was the orginal
    “Mr. West Seattle”, and I will really miss him.

    A savings account has been opened to help assist the family. Please make checks out to:
    “Webster Family” and can be mail to or dropped off at First Mutual Bank 4102 Californa Avenue SW, Seattle, WA. 98116.

  • Art Braden April 24, 2009 (3:55 pm)

    May I never forget, as would have been said by Ben Obi-Wan Kenobi… there is a true absence in the “force”! Although I agree with Ann Landry, a bit of his power goes on in each of us and through our love (for each other) the force will continue to grow. What a fitting legacy for the man who connected people. May God bless

  • Dewain and Natasha Savage April 24, 2009 (5:31 pm)

    I knew JB for over twenty five years. We ran into each other at many common family events. He became a friend coleage of ours. He was always positive and earnestly involved in whatever he was doing. He will be sorely missed. Our condolences to Christi, Tyler, and Logan. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

  • Sandy Adams April 24, 2009 (6:29 pm)

    For the many years I have known JB, he was always present at Chamber functions, a strong supporter of ArtsWest, a true believer in community, a teller of really bad jokes, a person who could always bring a smile to your face! I was privileged to also see his more serious side–he was a sensitive and caring person who always made me feel special. His pride in his children was legend–my heart goes out to them and to Christi.

  • Tom April 24, 2009 (7:57 pm)

    My daughter Clara is Logan’s classmate. She wants to say she is very sad JB died and she feels really bad for Logan.

    Although I did not know JB I am moved by the power of people’s remembrances here.

    Godspeed JB.

    Strength and love to the Websters.

  • Susan Dougherty Nichol April 24, 2009 (9:42 pm)

    Love and prayers to Christi, Tyler and Logan. I am one of many of Joe’s 1st cousins. We called eachother “Cuz”. I was born and raised in West Seattle in my early years and still consider it home and a beautiful place to live. JB’s huge family will miss his bright smile and his warm hugs and kisses. I am pleased and enriched by all the friends that have written in this blog.

  • Tim & Carol Winston April 25, 2009 (7:54 am)

    We got to know JB when Tyler was on the Hi-Yu Jr Court. He was a great supporter of the West Seattle Hi-Yu Summer Festival both directly and indirectly as a Commodore and through his family. He was always one to bring a positive and “festive” influence. Many candidates and courts remember his support of advice and smile of encouragement. We will miss him at parades and Seafair events this summer. Our West Seattle Community will not be the same.

  • Anna M April 25, 2009 (9:35 am)

    I’m an old friend of JB’s older son Eli and I know how much he loved and admired his father. I’m so sad for the entire family but it sounds like JB did so much good in his life and touched so many people. We can all hope to be that lucky. My family sends their condolences and best wishes to the entire family in this very difficult time.

  • Alicia April 25, 2009 (11:33 am)

    JB was always so kind to me. He was always willing to listen to my stories and he was always giving kind encouragement. I will never forget me and JB’s last conversation in which he told me to always be kind to others and earn their trust before anything else. He told me to follow my heart and reach for my dreams, he told me I could do anything I wanted but it wouldn’t be worth it unless it was what was in my heart. JB it is going to be so strange not seeing you around anymore, looking for your smiling face, hearing your funny jokes, and seeing your joyful smile. You will always have a place in my heart and I hope you continue to inspire people to be the best they can be in their lives.

    -Alicia W

  • Sam Pace April 25, 2009 (4:21 pm)

    Like so many REALTORS® throughout Washington, I’m deeply saddened and shaken by JB’s passing.

    As we try to cope with the news of such a huge loss, I am thankfully reminded that the size of the gigantic whole in my heart is also the measure of the blessing JB was, and the memories of him continue to be, in my life. Hard as it is to try to come to terms with his passing, I’m grateful it hurts so bad…because it means that I – like so many others – have been greatly blessed, and privileged, to know JB.

    I can’t even begin to describe the nature of the blessing of knowing JB: If you knew JB, no description is necessary; If not, no description could possibly begin to do him justice.

    Christi, Tyler, Logan and Eli, please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.

    Sam Pace, REALTOR®
    Kent, WA

  • Christi Webster April 25, 2009 (5:33 pm)

    As I’m reading through all these comments, I’m overwhelmed with the love you all felt towards JB and your blessings to our family. Please know that JB loved connecting with all of you. You brought him much joy and laughter.

  • john bennett April 26, 2009 (8:15 am)

    JB was one of those few people you meet in life that you automatically like. His positive energy and smile were inspiring. I worked with JB on opening the Log House Museum and I have to say that his enthusiasm was a key factor in getting the doors open. I will miss seeing him evey month serving wine on the art walk. He will be missed but not forgotten.

  • Terri Gordon April 26, 2009 (11:30 am)

    As a mother of Tyler’s teammate, Emily, and the wife of her soccer coach, Kelly, I am deeply sadden by the loss of a friend. JB was a kind, inspirational and humorous man and I enjoyed sitting with him at the soccer field. He was very proud of Tyler and his family and was always very positive. He will be truly missed but not forgotten. Our love, thoughts, support and prayers go out to the Webster family.

    Terri Gordon

  • Marilou Bingham April 26, 2009 (12:40 pm)

    My heart goes out to Christi, Eli, Tyler, and Logan for their loss. I am JB’s aunt. His uncle Stafford and I proudly watched JB and our many nieces and nephews grow up and enter adulthood with its many challeges but in the back of my mind they were always young and indestructable.

    It is wonderful to read the comments here and realize that JB’s active life has touched the hearts of so many people who express their love and appreciation of his presence in their lives.

    Goodbye Joe. You and your dear family will always be remembered in my prayers. Love, Aunt Marilou

  • Dee Lee April 26, 2009 (2:01 pm)

    I too was blessed to have JB in my life. He was one of the first Commodores I met after I joined. He introduced himself to me a the Pirates Landing and welcomed me into this wonderful group, a special man that will be missed for a long, long time.
    I know that his family will feel some comfort with the many Commodores attending his service, I know I did.
    Dee

  • Kim Pierce April 26, 2009 (2:03 pm)

    It is with deep regret that I will be unable to attend the memorial service fon Tuesday for our wonderful friend, JB.

    JB became a Commodore shortly before I did and he and I became fast friends as we were the “newbies”. He loved people, had a HUGE heart and I am one of the lucky many whom he made feel as if I were the most special person in the world.

    JB will live on in my heart and memory eternally. I wish to seek comfort for our loss in the surrounding of my Commodore friends, but that isn’t meant to be on the chosen day of respect for him. I am grateful for him and for all of you who will be there to represent our love for him. Please know that my compassion and heart will be with all of you, and hopefully we will all be together again soon to share our memories of and great times with JB Webster.

    With respect and love,
    Kim

  • Eric Wechselberger April 26, 2009 (2:04 pm)

    JB was that special inspiration that you could feel whenever you were around him. He will be missed by all of us, and I know there will be a large empty whole out there with him gone, that will last for a very long time. This is just so unexpected, and shock still hangs in the air for me. I will see you all on Tuesday so we can share another moment with our dear departed friend.
    Eric Wechselberger – 1998 Commandant

  • Ray Biggs April 26, 2009 (2:05 pm)

    I was shocked to hear about JB and now saddened by his passing. JB was recruited during my rein and I remember how so enthused he was to join the Commodores. His atitude was “please, can I join your most worthy organization – I will do my best to be a good Commodore”. I believe he achieved that and then some. Please pass my condolences to Christi as I will be out of town until May 15th. I hope that those Commodores in town can pay their respects for us all.

    Ray Biggs – Commandant 1999

  • Spokane Lilac Festival April 26, 2009 (2:08 pm)

    Our deepest sympathy to all of JB’s friends, Festival family, and family.

    2009 President Michael Waldrip
    Spokane Lilac Festival ::”I Love a Parade”

  • Beth Knox April 26, 2009 (2:11 pm)

    What a huge loss to the Seafair Family. Our thoughts & prayers are with JB’s immediate family, as well as the many wonderful friends who enjoyed his talents and gifts.

  • Ken North April 26, 2009 (2:16 pm)

    I think I speak for all of us when I say our hearts go out to Christi and the Webster family. Like all of you, we had been praying for a speedy recovery because we had already felt the impact of not having JB around the officer’s table or having his smiling face as part of our group as we began the year in Tacoma and Puyallup. It’s very troubling to think that we have lost our good friend and fellow officer.

    Ken North – Commandant 2009

  • Ken North April 26, 2009 (2:34 pm)

    http://www.seafaircommodores.com/

    Commodore JB Webster, on the website

  • Walter Taucher April 26, 2009 (3:06 pm)

    JB came into the Commodores the same time I came into the Pirates and we had become fast friends. JB reached over the fence and was one whom encouraged friendships across Seafair families. I will always remember the happiness he created with his smiling face, the way he would always make me feel welcome into the circle of conversations or events that he was involved in. So many good times, breakfast at the Luna Cafe, drinks at near by pubs at parade stagings, after torchlight snacks at the hotel, i really will miss him. And he was a commodore you would always find at the charity events like the Special peoples cruise. What a gift he brought us all.

  • Teisha April 26, 2009 (5:28 pm)

    Hi all. I also called J.B. “Dad” from 1970-my teen years. Just wanted to be counted for my memories too. Drove me to tolo as an undercover limo driver, first full sentence was uttered to him, shopped for my mom’s (Judy) Christmas presents together (I could never keep a secret!) He and I both delivered my little brother Eli at home in Iowa. I hope I helped in some way to make him a better father and man for the next generation of children. Thanks for taking the time to read this, TT a.k.a. Teisha

  • Nathan Thomas April 26, 2009 (9:47 pm)

    I met JB through my wife when they were members of the West Seattle Historical Society board. JB was one of those amazing people who could always put a name to a face. I would run into him 4-5 times a year and he always new my name and asked about my wife and kids. He will truly be missed. My thougths and prayers are with Christi and the kids.

  • Coach Bob April 26, 2009 (10:00 pm)

    My family’s condolences to Christi and the Webster family. I had the pleasure of meeting JB this past season while I coached Logan in cub league basketball. You could feel his positive attitide about life in a short conversation. He attended almost every practice and all games. And even though we didn’t win many (only one) he was so upbeat at the experience his son was having and the effort myself and asst. coach Marc put forth that you couldn’t help but walk away energized about life and participating in whatever community you live in. At one of our last practices we were chatting away about people of influence in our lives and he spoke of his sons and daughter being his legacy that he poured his life into. He truly was a family man. I did not get a chance to meet his son Eli, but I know he as well as Tyler and Logan will miss their “dad” and the love and affection he put into their lives. I too will miss him on the “sidelines” encouraging me along.

  • Miriam Simmel April 26, 2009 (10:57 pm)

    Kim Pierce gave me JB’s card just after I got to Seattle in 2003, and what a blessing! JB & I clicked right away. He had such class and caring and integrity. His old world charm, and people intelligence was stunning– a real connector that so many of us benefited from. Christi, ‘his bride’ daily honored in his conversations; Logan his bright spark, Tyler a true joy, and Eli…an upstanding young man…yes, his heart was full of his family and friends…such an encouraging soul. I once heard a phrase “intelligence is awesome, but kindness is more important” — JB had both going for him…he also brought it out in others – what a gift. I will be honored to remember him by passing this gift on…Miriam Simmel, Long Beach, CA.

  • Mollie Yunker April 27, 2009 (6:37 am)

    JB, my heart and prayers are with you.
    Christi, Tyler, Logan and Eli, my heart breaks for you.

    Shortly after moving to Seattle in 2005 I met JB after the Pirates Landing event. We stayed in touch. He provided referrals for a bank, First Mutual, and a financial adviser, Tom Lyon)as I navigated becoming a citizen of Seattle.
    My first Thanksgiving in Seattle I was invited to spend it with his family meeting some of the others who have already posted. We were all welcome, and by the end of the day, young and young at heart, were rolling on the floor together playing games.

    His heart made room for all of us – growing bigger everyday. May his friends and family break their hearts open to expand like his.

  • Kevin Skelly April 27, 2009 (8:56 am)

    My thoughts are with the entire Webster family. I never met JB, but having lost a spouse unexpectedly myself I know how this feels. Stay strong for each other.

  • hammerhead April 27, 2009 (9:30 am)

    He had a former life teisha,eli were the kids and judy the mother of the kids. he did have past life.

  • Kerry Dean April 27, 2009 (12:12 pm)

    Christi, Eli, Tyler & Logan…I am sooo very sorry to know of your loss… JB was instrumental in getting me to join the Seafair Family and I will never forget his genuine smile and positive attitude toward life. He loved you all very much and loved to talk about all of the fun “stuff” that was going on in your lives. He could always be counted on to deliver some corney joke or shenanigan that made me laugh…
    My heart goes out to you all in your time of loss and my prayers are with you…

  • Jacqueline Muir O\'Neill April 27, 2009 (1:09 pm)

    My condolences to the Webster family which includes Teisha and Eli. I am JB’s first cousin; his father and my mother were brother/sister. I was born in West Seattle in our Grandmother Webster’s home; my mother married my dad who was from North Dakota and they moved “back to the farm” to raise my brother and me. I did not have the honor of spending much time with Aunt Lucille (JB’s mother) and JB but my husband and I stopped in West Seattle several years ago on our way home from Arizona. We were greeted and treated royally and totally felt we re-connected as family and cousins. Christi, I am so sorry to hear of JB’s passing. He certainly was a wonderful husband and father and was dedicated to his civic involvement – he loved it and it was his life. I will keep all of you in my prayers and know that the memories of love and sharing will be kept close in your heart. May peace be yours.

  • Christopher Zinovitch April 27, 2009 (3:03 pm)

    My thoughts are with the family JB has left behind. Tyler is one of the most amazing girls I have had the honor of getting to know, and that is thanks to amazing parenting Christi and JB have done. JB will be missed by everyone in West Seattle.

  • Matt Clark April 27, 2009 (3:10 pm)

    Wow, such a sad loss for West Seattle and the world. JB seemed to be one of those people who was so positive and comfortable in his own skin, living life to the max every day. I think if we all strive to live as he did, our world would be a much better place. My condolences to Christi and the Webster family. JB barely knew me and was so quick to help make an introduction or offer a helping hand. What a fantastic human being he was!

  • Sally del Fierro April 27, 2009 (5:18 pm)

    Those that knew JB were blessed to have met an incredibly lovely person in every way. He will be remembered by so many people for so many things…a bright star in our community. His joy, kindness, smiles will be greatly missed.

  • Jamee Rakus April 27, 2009 (6:28 pm)

    The real estate industry has lost a great man of integrity and honesty. We at the Fauntleroy Windermere extend our hearfelt condolences to his family. He will be sorely missed!

  • GreenSpaces April 27, 2009 (11:58 pm)

    I cut my real estate teeth working as JB’s assistant 10 years ago at Windermere West Seattle. For almost a year we were practically attached at the hip until I was sent off into the wild blue yonder on my own. Many of the things that I learned in the beginning and are my mantra today I learned from him.
    JB loved technology and used the word “sexy” a lot when talking about gadgets or neat things that were happening. My husband and I helped him create his first “Call JB First” site and referral list. JB had great concepts and business ideas. Like the rest of us he sometimes struggled to get things off the ground – ahead of the curve is often a difficult place to be. He was a man before his time.
    JB would think it very cool that he had such a huge impact on all of us – people often don’t realize what a positive influence they are on others. I hope he is smiling down on us all and our many memories while he is kicking his heels among the clouds playing with the slick wireless gate opener to Heaven, saying “Sexy!” under his breath.

    Wendy Hughes-Jelen, GreenWorks Realty

  • Mary, Simon and Cecelia Rehm April 28, 2009 (8:19 am)

    JB will live on within each of us whose lives were graced by knowing him. His spirit, grace, and enthusiasm for life were contageous and life affirming. Our hearts hurt knowing how many will miss him, espcially his gorgeous family. You’re in our thoughts and prayers. Note to Tyler: Simon says you can go to him for a hug any time you need one, at school or this summer, no questions asked!

  • Shirley & Bill Duval April 28, 2009 (11:36 am)

    Christi, Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Our hearts are burdened especially for the children of JB. May they know the assurance of their Heavenly Father which they can go to anytime and what a wonderful promise that is. We truly enjoyed reading all the blogs on JB. He loved his family, his community, people, and life. Thanks for sharing that with us. Christi, we love you and we ask God’s Blessings On You and Your Family. Aunt Shirley & Uncle Bill Battle Ground, WA

  • Colleen Gants April 29, 2009 (4:24 am)

    Dear Christi and family, Thank you for sharing JB with us – he was always so genuinely nice and caring every time we came into contact with him through West Seattle Hi-Yu. Both you and JB brought us into the Hi-Yu and Seafair tradition, making our daughter feel so welcome, and teaching her the value of volunteerism & pride of community. JB leaves a great legacy behind, and we are honored to have been touched by him. With love, Colleen & Colin Gants Family (India Hi-Yu Princess 2007-08)

  • Richard Cordell April 29, 2009 (8:39 am)

    My friendship with JB began in the late ’60 in California. Our contact grew less over the years, yet I always knew that in Seattle I had a special friend that was always there. A man of joy and integrity, compassion and fun. He is a man that I love and respect deeply.

  • Elizabeth Lee April 29, 2009 (2:33 pm)

    Christi & Family:

    JB was such a lovely guy. We will be thinking of you often during these times and wish you only the best which is what JB would have wanted for you all.

    Elizabeth, Adrian , Ben and Harrison Lee

  • The McFarlane Family May 1, 2009 (8:05 pm)

    My son just started playing this year in the WS Baseball League so we did not have the pleasure of getting to know JB, it sounds like was a wonderful person. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his entire family, we are deeply sorry for you loss.

  • David Enroth May 4, 2009 (6:16 am)

    I have known Joe Webster for more than 50 years. He was one of the smartest kids in school, then on to Yale University. Joe contributed to community, had professional careers, and a solid family life. Only a couple of years ago Joe, John Norberg, and I played basketball together – all of us in our sixties. Joe was just as competitive on the basketball court as ever: very quick on his feet and with his endless wit. Joe, you made a lot of friends in life, and we know you are now in a better place. Rest in peace.

  • Ray Brand May 4, 2009 (4:20 pm)

    My wife and I are also part of a special group that JB belonged to, the Seattle Seafair Commodores. There wasn’t a meeting or social gathering that JB wouldn’t put a smile on everyone’s face. He will be truly missed. Our hearts and prayers go out to Christi and the kids. We love you guys…

    Ray and Joy Brand
    Commandant and First Lady “2000”

  • Michaelle Crovisier May 16, 2009 (12:51 pm)

    JB is sorely missed!Christy you continue to amaze me, taking care of your family and co-workers. No secret why he admired you so.
    looking forward to project put JB on the Beach. Anyone interested in our fundraising party to have a commemoritive plaque dedicated to the difference he made contact me!
    Love to All! Michaelle

  • WSB May 16, 2009 (1:05 pm)

    Hey – give us a shout
    editor@westseattleblog.com
    we would love to do a followup on that.

    -Tracy @ WSB

  • Cheryl Harvey May 17, 2009 (3:42 pm)

    Dear Christi & family ~
    I had hoped to reconnect with J B after all the ” frienship years”
    ’59 – ’72” – and when I got that email in March I thought it was going to happen. I would have loved to have met you. Everything I have rad about J B is so true and more. He had a way of making each person he came in contact with feel as tho’ they were indeed special when all along it was J B that was the special man of God. May knowing you will be reunited in heaven someday give you peace. I will be praying for you and for the children. May God bless you and keep you in His loving peace. Cheryl

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