Palmer Stangvik, a beloved teacher on Queen Anne for three decades, gently passed away Nov. 15 at home in Napa, Calif., surrounded by family and friends.
Mr. Stangvik was 71.
He was born June 9, 1936, to Martin and Inga Stangvik, and grew up in Ballard. Graduating from Ballard High School in 1954, he went on to earn an education degree from Seattle Pacific University.
Mr. Stangvik was known to a couple generations' worth of fifth- and sixth-graders at Coe Elementary School, where he taught for 30 years. Last spring the school's playground was renamed Palmer's Playground in his honor.
His deep connection to the sea sent Mr. Stangvik to Alaska, fishing his beloved waters for 40 summers. He was an avid fly fisherman and had a deep respect for nature and all living things.
Palmer Stangvik made a lasting impression on everyone he met, through his wisdom, kindness, integrity and sense of humor. He enjoyed reading, consuming a book a week, and was a big sports fan.
He is survived by his wife, Janet; his sons, Erik and Marcus; his daughter, Heidi; his grandchildren Olivia, Allegra and Grace; his sister, Sheila; and his cousins Gordon, Perry, Raymond and Ronnie and their families.
Memorial contributions can be made to either Alliance For Education c/o Coe Elementary School "Palmer's Playground," 509 Olive Way, Suite 500, Seattle WA 98101 (www. alliance4ed.org) or The Best Friends Animal Society, 5001 Angel Canyon Rd., Kabad, UT 84741 (www. bestfriends.org).
A memorial service will be held Saturday, Dec. 1, at 11 a.m. at the Nordic Heritage Museum, 3014 N.W. 67th St. in Ballard.
