Obituaries: Honoring Lives from Across the Region
This list of obituaries reflects the lives of individuals who passed away during May and June 2025. These entries, spanning various ages and communities, offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of life across cities like Tacoma, Lakewood, Puyallup, and beyond.
Notable Passings by City
Tacoma
Tacoma saw the passing of numerous long-time residents, including:
- Jean Adams, age 79
- Timothy Allen, age 63
- Victor Appel, age 84
- Donald Avery, age 81
- Sharon Carlson, age 85
- Dennis Blum, age 72
- Sylvia Howard, age 59
- Joyce Johnston, age 84
- Marlene Davis, age 93
- Betty Lou Latham, age 95
- Gudrun Richardson, age 87
These individuals contributed to Tacoma’s vibrant community in countless ways, whether through family, work, or civic engagement.
Lakewood
In Lakewood, several beloved members of the community were mourned:
- Michael Afenstek, age 63
- Rena Allred, age 59
- Bonnie Dougherty, age 68
- David Hugwig, age 82
- James Jackson, age 67
- Yolanda Macias, age 78
- Maryanne Williams-Fuatasi, age 56
Their legacies continue to influence local neighborhoods and institutions.
Puyallup
Puyallup recorded multiple losses, including:
- Stephen Alison, age 70
- Ronald Book, age 88
- Carolyn Gamber, age 84
- Nancy Young, age 91
- Robert Laycock, age 89
- Marilyn Stephens, age 92
These residents played key roles in shaping the city’s cultural and social fabric.
Other Cities
From Bonney Lake to Gig Harbor, Graham to Spanaway, communities throughout the region also experienced significant losses:
- Bryan Bernal-Pedroza, age 17 (Renton)
- Phoebe Arkhipchuck, age 15 (Bonney Lake)
- Jerry Crabtree, age 87 (Kingston)
- Eloise Washburn, age 96 (Tacoma)
- Clarence Gregory, age 75 (Tacoma)
- Edward Colby, age 76 (Edgewood)
Age Range Highlights
The range of ages among those who passed is notable. While many lived well into their 70s, 80s, and even 90s, others left us far too soon.
Centenarians
Several individuals reached impressive milestones before passing:
- Marchesini, Norma – 102 years old (Puyallup)
- Middlebrooks, Mary – 101 years old (Milton)
- Layton, Victor – 101 years old (Bonney Lake)
- Begert, Sono – 107 years old (Tacoma)
Their longevity serves as a testament to resilience and quality of life.
Young Lives Lost
Tragedies struck with the loss of young people such as:
- Jennings Myers, age 9 (Tacoma)
- Jennerjahn, Jonathan, age 5 (Graham)
- Sheikhsufi, Yahrah, only 5 days old (Tukwila)
- Robles, Alivia, just 1 day old (Lakewood)
These heartbreaking losses remind us of life’s fragility and the importance of cherishing every moment.
Diverse Backgrounds and Contributions
Each entry represents a unique life story — from veterans and educators to parents and entrepreneurs. Some names may be familiar due to public service or local prominence, while others lived quietly impactful lives within their families and circles.
Notable professions and contributions include:
- Military service: Several individuals served their country proudly.
- Education: Teachers and administrators helped shape generations of students.
- Faith leadership: Pastors and churchgoers nurtured spiritual communities.
- Healthcare workers: Nurses and caregivers provided comfort to countless patients.
- Artists and musicians: Creative spirits enriched local culture.
Community Reflection
These obituaries serve not only as records of death but as reminders of the interconnectedness of our shared human experience. Whether they lived 107 years or just one day, each individual touched lives in meaningful ways.
As we reflect on these lives, we are reminded to honor the past while embracing the present and building for the future.
