John "Jack" Van Buskirk

July 14, 1935 - August 13, 2019
Ferndale, WA

John "Jack" Van Buskirk

July 14, 1935 - August 13, 2019
Ferndale, WA

Obituary

Jack was born in Tacoma, WA to John and Ava (Benson) Van Buskirk on July 14, 1935.

After graduating from Stadium High School in 1953, he continued his education at College of Puget Sound, where he was a member of Sigma Nu Fraternity, and University of Washington Law School, graduating in 1963. He married Joy Hoff on May 2nd, 1964, in Tacoma and they spent many wonderful years together. Jack acted as president from 1976-1977 and was on the Pro Bono Committee for the Tacoma Pierce County Bar Association, was a founder of the WA State Trial Lawyers Association, was on the Board of Directors for the Whatcom Volunteer Center from 2002-2007, served as Church Council President for Emmanuel Lutheran Church, and was a member of South Tacoma Kiwanis and the Bellingham Trap and Skeet Club. An accomplished lawyer, he practiced law in Tacoma for 37 years. Jack loved sitting on the deck of his Sandy Point home with his family, enjoying the view of the water and San Juan Islands.

He was predeceased by his sister, Linda Jefferson. Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Joy; daughter, Gayle Marie Saunders; son, Michael John Van Buskirk; granddaughters, Hazel Mae Van Buskirk and Delaney Marie Saunders; sister, Kay Goodmanson; brother, Jay Van Buskirk; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 24th at 2PM at Christ Lutheran Church (5904 Vista Dr. Ferndale).

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Salvation Army (1424 Northeast Expressway Atlanta, GA 30329).

Memorial Service

  • Date & Time: August 24, 2019 (12:00 AM)
  • Venue: Christ Lutheran Church
  • Location: 5904 Vista Drive Ferndale, WA 98248 - (Get Directions)

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2 responses to John "Jack" Van Buskirk

  1. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your families.

    Our family appreciates Jack’s hard work and diligence over the years when he was practicing.

  2. Dear Joy, I sent another message to you in early September, but I am not certain it got to you. I just wanted to extend my condolences to you for the passing of Jack. I remember being with you, Jack, John and Ann from time to time. The last time I saw you was at Tacoma Screw, a few years ago. I lost my dad on 12/27/1970 and I still miss him so I have some idea how you feel. My best to you. We now live in Gig Harbor. Merry Christmas. Bert

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