Mark Kagi dies at 56

A lover of life and people, Mark Kagi passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on Dec. 14. Loving husband, wonderful father, life teacher, friend and mentor to many, he defied odds and taught the importance of hope and optimism in spite of his respiratory disease, COPD. Mark’s vitality and laughter will forever be an inspiration to those who knew him.

Born in Syracuse, NY to Swiss immigrant parents Albert and Hannah on Feb 5, 1933. Graduated from the Maxwell school at Syracuse University, B.A. Philosophy, Ph.D. Political Science, 1964. Asst. Professor of Political Science, Rutgers University and University of Washington. Director of Police Science &Community Service Program, Seattle University. Proud owner of Lynnwood Books, a community hub for 15 years. Board member of Evergreen Manor and UW Friends of Suzzallo Library.

Mark loved choral music and sang with Seattle Chorale (1950’s). Avid yodeler, bender of the rules, health-food skeptic, believer in duct tape, designer of Rube Goldberg solutions. Loved skiing, books, Scrabble, Sudokus, baseball at the Kingdome, Westcott Bay and taking “walks” with family and friends on his Segway.

Mark will be remembered most for his sharp intellect, insights and good-natured sense of humor in spite of life’s challenges. He touched many lives through his acceptance of people from all backgrounds and brought out the very best in those around him. He was a dedicated believer in the power of Alcoholics Anonymous.

Mark will be dearly missed by his wife Ruth LeCocq Kagi, five children Tim, Jonathan (Virginia), Steve (Misty), Chris (Eudoxia), and Anne. Brothers Albert &Edmond Kagi, sister Margie Grayson, and many nieces &nephews.

Celebration of Mark’s life will be Saturday, Dec. 22, 11 a.m. at University Congregational Church, 4515 16th Ave NE, Seattle. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mark’s name to Evergreen Manor (North Everett), Pioneer Human Services, or Friends of the UW Libraries Fund.