Peter Andrew Jonsen

LIFE SKETCH

June 11, 1968 – June 8, 2016

Peter passed away in his home peacefully and unexpectedly on June 8, 2016. He was born in Seattle, WA on June 11, 1965 to Gordon and Barbara Jonsen, and is survived by his parents, his Brother Eric (wife Janelle), his Sister Stephanie (partner Matt), Niece Erica and two year old Forrest, his Great-Nephew.

Peter spent his growing up years living in Fauntleroy, attending Fauntleroy Elementary School with many friends and activities. Peter was also a Boy Scout. His YMCA activities included swimming, gymnastics, and Indian Guides involving Dads and their Sons.

At seven years of age Peter started piano lessons and entered the National Piano Auditions in the District. Peter loved music. He also enjoyed skiing with his friends which continued until a few years ago. His first jobs included delivering the Seattle Post Intelligencer and the West Seattle Herald, as well as yardwork for the neighbors.

Each year, in the summer, Peter spent a week at Sunset Lake Camp with his lifelong friend John. He also spent the remaining summer at his Grandparents home in Deer Harbor on Orcas Island . . . enjoying lots of swimming, boating and hiking. A favorite place in Deer Harbor was Fawn Island where Peter and Eric would take a lunch in the skiff and row to the island to spend the day treasure hunting. The boys thought the island belonged to them. From very early Peter considered Eric “his hero,” and then his beloved sister arrived. Peter informed his Mom; “if we don’t get a baby sister we will have to take it back!”

Peter attended Seattle Christian School from 8th grate to graduation in 1983. As a freshman he joined the cross-country running team enjoying the competition. Peter took up the violin and played through High School. He worked at a retirement home in West Seattle and volunteered at University Hospital.

In the fall of 1983, Peter began his college career at Whitman College in Walla Walla. He was a member of a fraternity and lived in the German House for a time. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics in 1987. From graduation to the present, Peter chose to give back to his alma mater by worked with the Board to build the schools endowment so others might have the “Whitman” experience that he enjoyed.

Peter began his professional career at SeaFirst Bank in Seattle. During this time he independently studied and earned his Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification. In 2000 he moved to Northern Trust Bank where he became Vice President and Senior Portfolio Manager.

Peter always loved to “GO” . . . whether camping, boating/sailing or traveling. He had many fond memories of boating and fishing with his Grandparents, as well as time spent at the family’s Mount Baker condominium skiing and hiking with friends and family. Eric taught Peter to sail. He enjoyed many happy times sailing and camping with Eric and Janelle around Puget Sound, the San Juan islands, and British Columbia. His travels also included Europe, South America, SE Asian, and Alaska. In 2015, his last overseas trip was to Sweden to attend his friend, Sara’s 50th Birthday celebration.

Peter was an excellent cook, hosting Thanksgiving dinners for the entire family . . . always happy to share recipes. Peter loved art and music. He was a kind, compassionate, generous, tender soul who never forgot the small things in life. Peter loved his family foremost and all people he met were his friends. He kept in touch with all from childhood to adulthood. He loved animals. Peter’s kitty “Clifford” has been his companion for 16 years.

Peter we love you and miss you!

A private Interment for family was held on June 28, 2016.

Memorial gifts may be made to Whitman College Annual Giving Office - 345 Boyer AVE – Walla Walla, WA 99362.

Arrangements under the direction of Acacia Memorial Park & Funeral Home, Seattle, Washington.