John “Jack” Lewis Younie

John "Jack" Lewis Younie

July 1, 1953 - December 15, 2017

Jack Younie died December 15, 2017, due to complications of ALS and related symptoms. To the end, Jack addressed his illness with the even temper and humor, acceptance and perseverance that were markers of his life.

Born in Seattle on July 1, 1953, Jack went to St. Cecilia, then Jesuit High School, and graduated from the U of O. Jack was a consummate Oregonian -- a skier, a lover of children and dogs running at the beach, and a bon vivant, but without the attitude.

By nature, Jack was a listener first, and conversationalist second. His listening informed his conversation, and when he did choose to put in a word, it often came with a devilish sparkle in his eye, and resulted in a hilarious comment, or good-humored jibe.

People liked Jack. One reason was that Jack wasn't judgmental and never said a bad word about anyone. He had a smile, a nod, or a hello for everyone he met, whether it was at work, on the street, or the dog park.

Jack was a patriarch for a loving and now heartbroken family: Martha, his wife and constant partner of 35 years; daughter Eloise, son Sam and daughter Glenn. Jack is survived by his family, parents John. W. and Norma Younie; sisters Helen, Susie and Gail Younie; sister Berit Stevenson and spouse Lee Stevenson; and brother Wade Younie.

Beyond that, Jack welcomed family from all points, notably for Sunday dinners, when Jack's dedication to conversation and a glass of wine could be interrupted only by the call to start the barbeque.

Jack spent nearly 40 years doing increasingly complex utility rate work and contract analysis for various iterations of PacifiCorp. There, he shared deep friendships as he ground out a career that provided the family with stability, and offered the promise of a happy retirement, which in tragic irony, he won't enjoy.

Our hearts are joyful from being part of Jack's life, but deeply bruised by his passing.

A private service is planned, and information on a Celebration of Life is forthcoming.

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