John Sheedy

Celebrating the life of our

friend John “Jack” W. Sheedy

Jack Sheedy was our most charismatic Orcas islander — a loving husband, father, grandfather and, most importantly, a tireless devotee to our community.

Jack retired in 1980 and moved to Orcas Island, where he planned to spend the rest of his life. Jack’s work in the local community began with his efforts to secure a 50-year loan to finance the Orcas Island Longhouse project. Jack worked on the Longhouse project until its completion and subsequently volunteered to be liaison between management and the residents for 13 years thereafter.

Jack touched the lives of many people and supported countless causes in the community that he care so much about. Jack was the commander of the Pole Pass Power Squadron (1986-87), and president of the Spring Point Homeowners Association (1982-84). He also served on the Episcopal Parish of Orcas Island Vestry (1990-93), was a representative from the 41st district on the Washington State Senior Citizens Legislative Intern Program (1988), and did so much more.

While Jack will be remembered for his many tangible accomplishments and contributions to our community, it will be his engaging personality and never-ending sense of humor that we will all miss the most. Fight on, Jack!

A private celebration of Jack’s life was held on Sept. 10. The family requests that memorial donations be made to the Emmanuel Episcopal Parish of Orcas Island, PO Box 8, Eastsound, WA 98245; or the Red Cross.