Theodore Graham Morrison

A seeker of the truth; fiercely loyal, and generous to a fault. When dining with Ted paying the tab was tough, and extreme tactics were to be deployed in order to ever see the bill. Never a man of luxury, although of exquisite taste, especially in cuisine – Ted’s true pride came from the love of his family, and companionship of a lifetime of great friends. His sense of humor was always just behind his trademark moustache.

Ted is survived by his beloved wife Kris Finnigan, with whom he shared the last eleven years of his life; two daughters, Lara Morrison-Wanke and Michele Morrison, brother John Morrison, and sisters Marian Morrison and JeanMarie Morrison-Morrison. He was a beaming grandparent to Alec, Bowen and Riley. He is preceded in death by his parents Norma and Walton “Bud” Morrison, both native Oregonians.

Ted raised two beautiful daughters with wife Susan Morrison, sharing decades together forging a wonderful family, and building a home in Woodinville, WA. He raised his daughters to be culturally aware and to celebrate the diversity he had seen all over the world.

Ted’s career choice did not fall far from the tree: his parents were Pearl Harbor survivors, and Bud’s subsequent Naval career spanned the world. Ted was immediately introduced to a life of travel as the family moved around the world to new duty assignments, and he developed a talent for quickly gaining friends in each new locale.

Ted was born on December 17, 1946 in sunny San Diego, CA. He graduated from Oregon State University with a degree in Political Science, having earned a coveted Navy ROTC scholarship, and later completed his Master’s in Psychology. Upon graduation from OSU he received his commission and headed off to flight school in Pensacola to earn his wings. He formed a lifelong bond with his squadron mates from VP-17; his well-earned call sign “Badger” exemplified his grit, strength of resolve, and tenacious fighting spirit. His vigor and endurance carried on to the rugby pitch during his Navy years.

Ted’s decorated military career led to him becoming an Advance Training Instructor, which included time on the supercarrier USS America of the famed Kitty Hawk-class fleet. He continued his call to duty as a Naval Reserve Officer, retiring from his service to our nation as Lieutenant Commander. The family is deeply appreciative of the many squadron mates from VP-17 who have shared so many memories. Ted’s first wife, Marta Heffner, remains honorary Lady of the VP-17 squadron to this day.

Following his naval career, Ted continued to travel the world as a commercial airline pilot, including stints with Braniff and Northwest. Prior to his retirement as Captain from Delta airlines, he managed to plot and complete his “bucket list” item to circumnavigate the globe. His passion for flying extended to his embracing food and culture of his destinations, with a particular fondness for Asian culture and cuisine. He traveled abroad in search of the best food and art he could find, always finding himself most “at home” in the Pacific Northwest. When dining out, Ted would often arrive ahead of the party, seeking out the head chef to get the “real scoop” on what was going on in the kitchen – always as an act of admiration for skill - and never to be critical.

Ted’s generosity knew no bounds. Always based on everyone enjoying time together, whether with family or the boys. Condo time at Lake Chelan was no exception and friends and family alike can take heart in having spent time with him there – truly in his happy place whether on the golf course, enjoying the local fare, or out on the water.

A celebration of life will be held at Greenwood Memorial Park in Renton on Wednesday July 1st at 10:00. A virtual viewing experience will be available for all who are unable to attend. A private Military funeral service will be held on Thursday July 2nd at Tahoma National Cemetery.