John (Jack) Ames

John (Jack) Ames, 95, died Thursday at Willow Springs Care in Yakima. Jack was born December 8, 1914 in Yakima to Arthur A. Ames and Constance (Gilman) Ames. Upon graduating from high School Jack attended the University of Chicago on a scholarship The Saturday Evening Post awarded to the student who sold the most copies of The Post. In his junior year at University he returned to Yakima in order to graduate from the University of Washington.

Jack was a prime mover in the opening of Home Federal Savings and Loan in Yakima where he served as president and manager for many years. In addition to his life in banking Jack was an active member of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, served as treasurer and a licensed Lay Reader for many years. He was also an active member of the Yakima Kiwanis Club. In addition Jack was a member of many garden clubs and societies, as gardening was his true passion

Jack lived in the former home of his wife’s parents for 56 years where he and Rose developed one of the most beautiful gardens in Yakima. Jack greatly enjoyed having people visit the garden where Jack cultivated dahlias his father used to grow and Rose’s father’s specility—irises. The garden is still open and visitors welcomed by Rose Ames and Miguel (Mike) Sanchez.

Survivors include his wife, Rose Ames, and a daughter, Connie Ames. Jack is also survived by his good friend and gardening companion Miguel (Mike) Sanchez. He was preceded in death by his parents and two daughters; Frances Lorraine Ames, and Marion Ames Magula.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday at Keith and Keith Terrace Heights Chapel. At Rose’s request those wishing to remember Jack may make contributions to Memorial Hospital’s Children’s Village. To celebrate the life of John Ames and share a memory visit www.keithandkeith.com.