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Mitzi Leibst lived to assist, defend the animal world
Wednesday, August 22, 2001
Mitzi Leibst was a cat person adored by dog lovers. And praise doesn't come much higher than that.
Ms. Leibst, who died of a brain tumor Aug. 12 at age 62, was an equal-opportunity animal activist who labored tirelessly for animal rights.
It didn't matter if it was in behalf of her beloved cats and she had about 40 of them or an unlucky chinchilla that found its way into a fur coat, or a huge white goose named Blue Eyes. She loved them all and fought hard to secure animals' rights in a world of humans.
Everyone knew at least two things were always true about the Ballard-born Ms. Leibst. One was that no activist meeting could interfere with her daily feeding rounds. In addition to her domestic-feline brood, she was a regular visitor to feral-cat communities around Magnolia, making sure the wild ones were adequately fed and spayed or neutered.
The other was that she always had a ready-made phrase for whatever group or individual was obstructing her fight for animal rights: "They just don't get it!"
For Ms. Leibst, a lot of people didn't get it. When the city of Seattle passed an ordinance allowing dogs to be classified as dangerous without evidence, she fought until a task force was formed to look into the issue.
"She was just very effective at analyzing the issue and helping us decide what the next step would be, " said Bill Kennedy, who worked with her on the ordinance campaign. "She was very passionate. You don't meet people like that very often."
Even the city Animal Control Board felt her ire. Keeping tabs on the organization's moves, she was on the scene of an accident involving an injured goose before authorities were. She and longtime friend Hilde Wilson came armed with a fishing net and blanket to catch and wrap the goose, and Ms. Leibst sent Animal Control away with the assurance she had the situation under control. Wilson took in Blue Eyes until she was well, and the two women oversaw her eventual adoption by a family.
Wilson met Ms. Leibst because of Wilson's cat named Mouse. Mouse had gone missing, and Wilson's search ads had gone unanswered. Ms. Leibst called her up to see if Mouse had come home and offered to help her search Phinney Ridge. Mouse never was found, but a friendship was formed.
"I thought, `This is my kind of person, ' " Wilson said. "That was how she was. If you knew there was an animal in distress and told her about it, she'd say, `I'll pick you up in half an hour.' "
Ms. Leibst was born Sept. 17, 1938 in Seattle and, after graduating from Ballard High School, went on to Reed College in Portland before she joined the Army. There she served as an intelligence officer and ended that career as a community-services officer at Fort Lewis. She went back to law school at the University of Puget Sound, after which she spent the rest of her life defending animals, not people.
She is survived by a brother, Charles, of Seattle. A memorial was held Saturday. The music accompanying the ceremony? Songs from the musical "Cats."
Remembrances may be made to Hooterville Pets Safehaus, 23812 Bothell-Everett Highway, Bothell, WA 98012, or to Animal Talk Rescue, 6514 Roosevelt Way N.E., Seattle, WA 98105.
'Bud' Shinpoch, budget watchdog
Thursday, October 18, 2001
Albert N. "Bud" Shinpoch, who rose from a childhood of poverty to powerful positions in the state legislative and executive branches, is dead at 76.
Mr. Shinpoch, a Democrat who served as chief budget writer in both chambers of the Legislature and later headed two of the biggest state agencies, died Tuesday (Oct. 16) at Valley Medical Center in Renton of complications of diabetes.
Known for a razor-sharp command of complex finances, Mr. Shinpoch served in the House from late 1969 to 1977, representing first the 47th district and then the 11th, and in the Senate from 1977 to 1984, representing the 11th. He later headed the departments of Finance and of Social and Health Services.
"His work ethic was incredible. He had a real caring for people affected by government which, of course, is all of us, " said former Gov. Mike Lowry, who served in the Legislature with Mr. Shinpoch.
"He, in particular, realized that those in our society most in need needed efficient government. He was a no-nonsense person if he thought tax dollars weren't being spent well."
As chairman of the Ways and Means Committee in each chamber, Mr. Shinpoch was known for grilling officials who arrived unprepared to fully describe, explain or defend their agencies' performances and budget requests.
"He knew the budget backward and forward, " said state Sen. Sid Snyder, D-Long Beach, the majority leader. "When bureaucrats appeared before the committee, they had better know their facts, figures and background on the measures because he knew them. "His knowledge of the budget saved taxpayers millions of dollars."
Mr. Shinpoch was born in McIntosh, Okla., "straight out of a John Steinbeck novel, " said his wife, Barbara Shinpoch, chairwoman of the state Horse Racing Commission. "His mother died. His little brothers went to an orphanage. A neighbor lady and her family took him to California in a truck."
Mr. Shinpoch went to work after graduating from high school and later came to Seattle to work for Boeing, where he and his wife met in 1952. He spent 42 years in management at Boeing.
Survivors include daughters Terre Scappini of Renton and Jan Shinpoch of Takoma Park, Md., three brothers, a foster sister and four grandchildren. At Mr. Shinpoch's request, no service is planned.
Harry Cross, authority on law
Monday, October 15, 2001
Harry M. Cross is remembered as a man of humble demeanor, yet he left a lasting influence on two divergent realms: law and college athletics.
As a University of Washington authority on community-property law, Mr. Cross influenced the writing and passage of laws protecting the community-property rights of nonworking spouses in divorce cases.
And as a former two-term president of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), he helped tighten controls over ethical issues in collegiate sports, such as the way athletes are recruited.
Mr. Cross, a Kirkland resident, died Oct. 10 at age 88 from complications after knee surgery.
He taught at the UW School of Law from 1943 until his retirement in 1984. Widely recognized as an expert in community-property law, he helped develop laws still in effect today in Washington and other states affecting the way property is divided when couples divorce.
Mr. Cross' influence also was felt through his numerous articles in law-review journals and textbooks he wrote. He co-wrote the "Community Property Desk Book, " a handbook for lawyers.
An interest in sports, coupled with his passion for playing by the rules, led to his appointment in 1963 as the University of Washington's representative to the NCAA. He held that position until 1984, and he was elected NCAA president in 1969 and 1970. He also was chairman of the committee on infractions.
"He was a very strong believer in doing things by the book, " recalled his son, Kim Cross of Kirkland. "He strove to be extremely fair, " whether in legal or athletic issues.
Mr. Cross' passion for fairness came into play during his NCAA years, when scandals arose at several colleges surrounding questionable methods used to recruit athletes for college sports. In response, he helped develop controls to ensure more ethical practices.
Kim Cross remembers his father as a humble man who seldom discussed his achievements. "He was truly one of the good guys of the world."
Mr. Cross was born Aug. 23, 1913, in Ritzville. His father was part-owner of a property-title company and his mother a schoolteacher.
He met his future wife, Mylinn, in Ritzville, where she operated a beauty salon. She died in 1999.
Mr. Cross graduated Phi Beta Kappa and with highest honors from Washington State University in 1936 and with high honors from the UW School of Law in 1940. He attended Yale University in special studies on a Sterling Fellowship in 1940-41.
Mr. Cross served as an attorney for the U.S. Treasury Department in Washington, D.C., and for the Tennessee Valley Authority in Chattanooga, Tenn., before joining the University of Washington law school. He served as associate dean from 1975 to 1978 and acting dean in 1978-79
Mr. Cross lived for many years in the Juanita area of Kirkland, on a five-acre plot where he and his wife and three sons raised vegetables and beef for their own consumption.
After retiring, Mr. Cross was active in the University of Washington Retirement Association, of which he was president in 1987-88.
In addition to Kim Cross, survivors include sons Bruce Cross of Seattle and Harry ("Pete") Cross Jr. of Kalispell, Mont.; eight grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
Private family interment services will be at Evergreen Memorial Park, Seattle. A public celebration of his life is set for 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday at the Don James Center at Husky Stadium.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to the UW School of Law or the athletic department.
Dan E. Nice
Born in Minneapolis, MN on Dec. 9, 1920
Departed on Apr. 26, 2003 and resided in Shoreline, WA.
DAN E. NICE, born December 9, 1920 in Minneapolis, MN., passed away April 26, 2003 at the age of 82. Raised in Zanesville, Ohio, he joined the Navy in 1939 and would serve for 15years. Through a shipmate, (his future brother-in-law) he met his wife Ruthe and they married
February 21, 1942. The Navy stationed Dan and his young family in Seattle in 1943, where they settled and raised six children. After serving in World War II and the Korean War, Dan was discharged from the Navy and began civilian life. He became a civil servant at the US Post Office, where he worked for 25 years and retired in 1979. Dan loved to travel and every spring since his retirement, took extended road trips around the States; visiting friends and family. Dan loved history, old movies and sports, especially auto racing, baseball and football. He liked to play games, collect stamps and had a soft spot for cats. His knowledge of current events and history will be sorely missed. Dan was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Ruthe. Dan is survived by his six children; Dan E. Jr., Gene, John (Corky), Terri (Burtis), Gary and Sue, numerous grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. At Dan’s request, there will be no service. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Humane Society or PAWS.
Melvin N. Nelson
Born in Petersburg, Nebraska on Jun. 7, 1919
Departed on May. 10, 2003 and resided in Shoreline, WA.
Melvin N. Nelson, age 83, of Shoreline, passed away after an eleven year battle with cancer on May 10, 2003. He was born on June 7, 1919 in Petersburg, Nebraska. Mel served with the 641st Bombardiers Squadron in the U.S. Army Air Corp during World War II. He worked in the carpentry business for many years. He later owned and operated Punchbowl Catering Service in Seattle. Mel also worked in building maintenance at Safeco Insurance Company. He loved collecting stamps and coins and enjoyed working with arts and crafts. Mel was a member of the Emerald City Foresters where he held different offices over the years. He also volunteered at the Lynnwood Group Health Clinic for many years. Mr. Nelson is survived by Phyllis, his loving wife of 44 years. daughters, NormaLou Nelson, Robin Green; granddaughters, Chery Callecod, Bonnie Callecod; grandson, Joshua Green; great grandson, Caleb Green, brother, Stanley Nelson and wife June; sister, Helen Nelson and husband Leo, and by numerous nieces, relatives and a host of friends. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, May 24, 2003 at Wallingford Presbyterian Church, 1414 N. 42nd Seattle, 98103. Private inurnment at Evergreen Memorial Park. If desired, memorials may be made to Wallingford Presbyterian Church or your favorite charity.
George J. Rowe
Born in Spokane, WA on Jan. 13, 1927
Departed on May. 18, 2003 and resided in Mountlake Terrace, WA.
GEORGE J. ROWE, 76, passed away May 18, 2003. He was born January 13, 1927 in Spokane, WA., the son of George P. and Mary L. Rowe. George is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 52 years, Betty, just two weeks ago on May 1, 2003. He is survived by daughter Trudy Clippinger; grandchildren Lauri (David) Meyer, Donald (Carla) Clippinger and Gary Clippinger; and 6 great-grandchildren. At George’s request, no formal service will be held.
LeRoy W. Larson
Born in Fort Ransom, ND on Jun. 30, 1940
Departed on May. 29, 2003 and resided in Seattle, WA.
cemetery: Washelli cemetery
LeRoy W. Larson,
Age 62, passed away May 29, 2003, after a courageous two-year battle with lung cancer. ’58 graduate of Central High School, Fargo, ND. Former employee of Bothell Thriftway, Frito-Lay, Amtrak, Seattle Personal Transit, owner of Sportscaster Saloon, and originator of Grand Larson-y music duo. Member of Kenmore Eagles 2609, Seattle Elks 92, and Bothell Sons of Norway. Survived by wife Gail of Seattle, mother Berniece Larson and brother Richard (Barbara) of N. Dakota, brother Lawrence (Debbie) of Gold Bar WA, son Howard of Eltopia WA, daughter Brenda (Dallas) Sledge of Edmonds, stepdaughters Janet (Scott) Parrott of Seattle, and Heather (Curt) Freeman of Lynnwood, grandchildren Joe, Amanda, Suede, Jacob and Nicole, numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews, and by former wife, Darlene George of S. Dakota. Memorial service Saturday, June 7th, 2003 2:00pm at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 111 NE 80th St., Se
Juanita Maria Rogero O'Neil
Born in Hallendale, FL. on Aug. 3, 1918
Departed on May. 1, 2003 and resided in Seattle, WA.
Juanita R. O’Neil, 84, passed away in her Seattle home on May 1, 2003. The first child and daughter of Berchman and Marjorie Rogero, Juanita was born in Hallendale, Florida on August 3, 1918. Educated in Florida, she lived briefly in Cincinnati, Ohio with her aunt and uncle before retuning to Miami where she met her husband Lester R. O’Neil while employed by the same company. In the 1950’s, the O’Neils moved to Oakland, CA where they worked at Montgomery Wards and then on to San Diego, CA where Juanita worked for the Walter Scott Company for 24 years. After the death of her husband of 36 years, Juanita moved to Seattle in 1982 to be near her sister. She worked for Bedside X-Ray before retiring for a second time. She is survived by her brother Gene Rogero and his wife Eve of Sanford, FL, sister Alma Harrison of Edgewater, FL, and sister Marjorie Gregory and her husband Jim of Longwood FL. She was preceded in death by her sister Marion and brother Joseph. Her many nieces, nephews and dear friends will miss her. A Memorial Mass will be held at 11 am on May 24, 2003 at St. Therese Parish Church at 3416 East Marion St., Seattle, WA.
Nita, as she was know by her family and friends, was a warm, loving and caring person who went out of her way to go the extra mile whether at work or in helping someone who needed her. She was an intelligent lady, a voracious reader, had a great sense of humor, enjoyed playing cards, having lunch with friends and traveling when she could. Nita enjoyed corresponding with family and friends in Florida, California, Arizona and New York. Given that her family was one of the founding families of Saint Augustine, Florida, she was very interested in genealogy. She loved to laugh, tell stories and enjoyed life to the fullest.
Lillian C. Leishman
Born in Canton, ND on Dec. 12, 1912
Departed on May. 17, 2003 and resided in Seattle, WA.
cemetery: Washelli cemetery
Born November 12, 1912 in Canton, ND; passed away May 17, 2003 in Seattle at age 90. She is survived by her beloved husband, Eugene; son, Glen Peterson and his wife Maria and 10 grandchildren. preceded in death by a son, Gary Peterson. Funeral service Tuesday, May 20; 12:00PM, Evergreen-Washelli Funeral Home Chapel 11111 Aurora Ave N. Seattle. Burial, Washelli cemetery.
Delores J. Lindsey
Born in Princeton MN on Jun. 12, 1914
Departed on May. 6, 2003 and resided in Olympia, WA.
Inurnment Service: Saturday May 17, 2003
cemetery: Evergreen Memorial Park
Born June 12, 1914; passed away May 6, 2003 in Olympia at age 88. She is survived by her beloved daughter, Karen M. Lindsey and son-in-law, Milton Swecker Jr. of Olympia; grandchildren, Dane and Brenna Lindsey-Swecker. preceded in death by her husband, Homer F. Lindsey in 1969. Inurnment service to be held Saturday, May 17; 1:00PM, Evergreen Memorial Park. Memorials suggested to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave, Suite 1700 Chicago, IL 60601; or the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, PO Box 779 Minneapolis, MN 55440.
Mabel Louise Baldwin
Born in Spokane, WA on Sep. 26, 1905
Departed on Apr. 25, 2003 and resided in Lynnwood, WA.
Born to a prominent Spokane family on September 26, 1905, passed away April 25, 2003 at age 97. Louise was the fourth of five children and the last surviving child in her family. She attended Webster Grade School and North Central High School in Spokane. She was athletic and active in sports. Louise was a strong swimmer, which served her well when she courageously saved the life of a nine year old boy who was drowning in the cold waters of Puget Sound near Olympia Washington. She was 18 at the time, and the summer during which she was working in Olympia for her uncle, Grant Hinkle, who was then Secretary of the State of Washington. She attended Cheney Normal School where she earned a teaching certificate and attended Washington State College where she was a member of Delta Zeta Sorority. Her first teaching job was at Valley Ford School near Spokane where she taught 5th and 6th grade. She then took a teaching position in Pasco WA, where she met Raleigh Baldwin, her future husband to be, a math teacher at Pasco High School. They married
on June 18, 1930 in Spokane. The Baldwin family moved from Pasco to Spokane, where Raleigh took a teaching position at North Central High School and later Lewis and Clark High School. In 1994 they moved to Richland to be near their daughter, Mary Palmer. Louise was an active member of Westminster Congregational Church for 57 years and became a member of the Meadow Springs Presbyterian Church after moving to Richland. She was a member of the Spokane Garry Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) for 53 years. Through her efforts a memorial was erected to Chief Spokane Garry who established and taught the first school in Spokane in 1832. A member of Delta Zeta Sorority Alumni in Spokane, for over 50 years. She served under Governor Dan Evans? ?the President?s Committee on Employment of the Handicapped for the State of Washington.? As an active member in the Associated Garden Clubs of Spokane, Lazy Dazy Chapter, she won many ribbons for flower arrangements. This reflected her love for gardening. Among her other interests were the Kellogg Travel Club, Sociable Service, Women?s Club of Spokane and delivering Meals on Wheels. Her greatest love was her family, friends and especially her grandchildren. She was the keeper of the family history and through her wisdom she left us with the gift of our history through stories, pictures, letters, memorabilia and genealogy records. She is survived by her son, Robert Baldwin of Longview, WA, daughters, Elizabeth and son-in-law, the Rev. George Pratt of Seattle WA, Mary Palmer and son-in-law, Richard Palmer of Richland WA; eleven grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren; nephew, Richard Leland Fanning of Diamond Lake WA and niece-in-law, Eleanor Stevens Grieve/Ellison of Priest lake, ID. One of the greatest sorrows in the life of her family was the death of her brother, Dr. Robert Grieve and his wife, Claire McClenny of Seattle in August of 1940. While serving as medical missionaries in the Anglo Egyptian Sudan they were killed by an Italian air raid on their village. She is also preceded in death by her parents, Dr. Matthew Barr Grieve, and Mabel Ann Boss Grieve; siblings, Dr. William E. Grieve, Dr. Margaret Irene Grieve, Elizabeth Lucille Fanning; nephew, Matthew W. Grieve, on June 2, 1997; husband, Raleigh Baldwin, on September 15, 1994 and daughter-in-law, Marilyn Egge Baldwin, on September 20, 1994. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 10, 2:00PM; Seattle First United Methodist Church Chapel 811 5th Ave. Seattle, 98104. A graveside service will be held Saturday, May 24, Pleasant Prairie Pioneer cemetery, Spokane WA. Memorial contributions suggested to a charity of choice.
