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Robert “Jack” Jackson Stephenson

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Jack was born on March 10, 1939 and passed from this life on February 23, 2020 at the age of 80. Jack spent his growing-up years in Yakima, WA and moved to Seattle to attend both undergraduate and law school at the University of WA. He practiced law for 38 years in downtown Seattle with an emphasis on civil trial practice. He was a man of integrity and honor, well respected as a lawyer who put the needs of his clients first. He had a great sense of humor with an amazing wit and was a powerful and successful trial lawyer.

Jack was a recognized leader and as such held presidencies in many organizations starting with his Student Bar Presidency and continuing on to be President of the WA Defense Council. He was an invited member of the Federation of Insurance and Corporate Counsel and was particularly proud of his admittance to practice before the Supreme Court of the United States. Throughout his life Jack believed firmly in giving back to his community, and he gave generously to support that goal. He was a founding board member of Fare Start in Seattle, served on the board of the North Puget Sound Counseling Centers, was on Session at the Lake Forest Park Presbyterian Church and was a supportive member of the Lake Forest Park Rotary serving as president in 1993. Jack enjoyed golf and was an active member of Sand Point Country Club for over 20 years.

Jack retired from practicing law in 2002 and he and his wife Sandy became snowbirds spending their summers in Seattle and winters in Sun City West, AZ. The sun of Arizona finally won out over the rain of Seattle and Jack and Sandy moved to their Arizona home full time in 2009.

Jack continued his life of service in Arizona and was president of the Sun City West Rotary Club. He served on PORA and the RCSCW water and legal committees. He spent many happy hours on the golf course at Briarwood Country Club and served as president in 2011. He was a founding member of Northwest Valley Connect and served as an Elder at Desert Palms Presbyterian Church. He was a dedicated servant of the Lord and reaffirmed his belief in Jesus Christ by being re-baptized in 2019.

Jack was a prime example of selfless service and earned numerous awards although he always said his greatest accomplishment was his family. He is survived by his wife and dedicated partner of 44 years, Sandy; daughter Misty and husband David Rookaird; daughter Tasha Stephenson and husband Dan Dodge; daughter Ginny and husband Jim Skurski. His grandchildren made his heart smile — Irene Rookaird, Zane Dodge, Carmen and Max Skurski. He loved his niece Julie and husband Tom Nickerson, his nephew Joe Will and his grand-niece Alaina Nickerson.

Jack served on the Board of Sun Health Foundation where he had an 8-year tenure including serving as Chairman of the Services Board from 2013-2015. Their support and caring were invaluable as Jack transitioned from the hospital to hospice care. The family suggests any remembrances go to the Sun Health Foundation, 14719 W. Grand Avenue, Surprise, AZ 85374 which serves the local community with such dedication.

Jack was truly an outstanding human being, husband, father, grandfather, uncle and dear friend. He left a legacy of fairness, faithfulness and commitment. He will be and is missed.

Due to the Covid-19 virus the memorial scheduled for March 27th had to be canceled and plans are undetermined at this time for any services.