Category: Obituaries

AUGUST 12, 1954 – JUNE 23, 2025

Kenneth “KJ” Alan Joseph, a beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and proud Tulalip Tribal member, passed away on June 23, 2025, at the age of 70. He left this world surrounded by the love of his family.

Born in Everett, Washington to Loretta James and Harold Eugene Joseph, KJ was the cherished baby brother in a big, loving family. His roots ran deep—descended from grandparents Lottie Mabel Sampson Henry and Leroy Henry Sr., and Eugene Joseph and Minnie Meander—his life reflected the love, resilience, and humor passed down from his ancestors.

He graduated from Marysville High School, blasting KC & The Sunshine Band and The Beatles. During those years, he journeyed to Hawaiʻi and fell in love with Aloha and he embraced a carefree “hippie life”. His siblings remember their childhood summers with great joy—riding bikes they pieced together from spare parts, swimming all day down at Coy’s dock, camping at Spee-bi-dah during the beach seining days, and laughing until their stomachs hurt.

KJ wore many hats in his life—blackjack dealer, Boeing riveter, carpenter, fisherman, gillnetter skipper, logger, and longtime Tulalip Tribes employee. He served in the Utilities Department, Maintenance Department, and on the Funeral Crew, offering care and service to his community.

He loved to carve cedar, always preferring the raw, unfinished beauty of the wood. He made bentwood boxes, rattles, furniture, and necklaces—things with meaning, made with care, and often given away. He had a green thumb—each year his garden overflowed with tomatoes, potatoes, and sometimes the tallest Mary Jane you’ve ever seen. He was a cook to remember—his frybread was sweet and golden, his chicken strips the best, his chili a comfort, and his strawberry freezer jam unforgettable. His smoked salmon was legendary.

He loved murder mysteries—Dean Koontz and James Patterson were his favorites—and could read three books in a week. And he loved his teams—the Seahawks, the Mariners, and the Sonics—with fierce loyalty. If there was a game on, you could find him watching it with his brother LeRoy, Uncle Stubby, Hanford, Gordy Hawk, or one of his many nephews.

KJ was a proud girl dad. He loved his daughters deeply, and he told them so every time he saw them. He also showed his love through the handmade gifts he adorned them with. His walls were covered with photos of his kids and grandkids—every picture ever given to him, hung with pride like a shrine. He was proud of Jessica’s accomplishments, and he carried that pride close. Chena, his oldest, lived with him and cared for him—she was his steady presence. And he loved his baby girl, Matika, in a way that will never leave her.

His daughters and grandchildren meant the world to him—Dominick, Lukas Alan, Alma Bee, and Kaya Rose. But nothing—nothing—mattered more to KJ than his grandson, “Dom”. The two were inseparable. They watched games together on weekends, talked almost every day, and stood by each other through everything. Dominick was his best friend, his joy, his steady companion—and he was with him at the very end.

He was human. He was complicated. He made mistakes. He carried pain. He also carried love—big, deep, unmistakable love for his kids and grandkids. And even when it was hard, we always knew who he was to us: our dad. Our grandpa. Our brother. Our uncle. Our stubborn, funny, story-filled, deeply loved KJ.

We like to imagine KJ now reunited with his beloved mom, Loretta; his nephews, Michael Lee and Scheiyenne Anthony; and of course, his dog, Ennit. Maybe there’s a game on. Maybe salmon on the smoker. Maybe he’s got a cedar carving in one hand and a book in the other. However it looks, we know it’s peaceful. And we know he’s home.

KJ is survived by his daughters, Chena Joseph, Jessica Joseph, and Matika Wilbur (Lino Manansala); his grandchildren, Dominick (Quinna) Joseph, Lukas Williams, Alma Bee, and Kaya Rose Manansala Wilbur; and his siblings: Marie (Gene) Zackuse, JuJu (Dolly) Joseph, LeRoy (Judy) Joseph, Karen (Cy) Fryberg, Judy (Tony) Gobin, and Carmen (John) Burke. He leaves behind a wide circle of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends who will carry his memory forward with love.

A prayer service will be held Thursday, June 26, 2025, at the Tulalip Gathering Hall—dinner at 5pm, service at 6pm. Funeral services will follow on Friday, June 27, at 10am, also at the Tulalip Gathering Hall.

Bring your stories. Bring your laughter. Bring your love. That’s what he would’ve wanted.

A memorial service for Larry will be held on July 17, 2025 at 1:00 pm at Schaefer-Shipman Funeral Home, , with refreshments to follow. Donations in lieu of flowers to the Northwest Parkinson’s Foundation.

NOVEMBER 14, 1963 – JUNE 1, 2025

Andrew was adopted to Virgil and Evelyn Johnson shortly after birth and was raised in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Royal City, WA. He served his mission in North Carolina, and after returning he moved to Moses Lake, WA, where he met his wife and had two daughters.

After the death of his adopted mother, he started his journey to find his heritage of which he found and was enrolled into the Tulalip Tribes. In 2003 he moved to Tulalip, WA, where he lived and worked until his incarceration in 2018.

He is preceded in death by his parents and siblings. He leaves behind his wife, daughters, and grandson.

A graveside service for Andrew will be held Monday, June 16, 2025 from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Mission Beach Cemetery, Mission Beach Rd, Tulalip Bay, WA 98271.

MAY 6, 1972 – JUNE 4, 2025

Chad Orr, 53, passed away on June 4, 2025 from a rare and aggressive cancer, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering love, kindness, and strength. He was a devoted husband, loving father, proud Papa, doting son, caring brother, and a loyal friend to many. To know Chad was to know true selflessness, compassion, and joy.

Chad was born and raised in Arlington and graduated from high school there in 1990. He was a proud member of Tulalip Tribes and enjoyed participating in native traditions. Chad’s friendships and love for people encompassed all aspects of his life, from those he met as a 33-year member of the Local 32 Plumbers and Pipefitters Union to those he was thrilled to see while operating his Boom City fireworks stand. Each and every friendship was special to him.

Chad married the love of his life in 2013, and together they lived a life full of laughter, love, and many adventures. Traveling became one of their favorite pastimes and they were able to explore 25 countries on 6 continents together. He loved his family fiercely, treating his stepchildren as his own and beaming with pride when introducing his grandsons. Being Papa was his greatest joy—he was playful, present, and deeply cherished.

Chad was our rock, our Superman, and our light. He showed us what unconditional love looks like and how to find good even in the darkest of times. He will be missed beyond words and loved passed space and more.

He is survived by his wife Tracy, three children Austin (Dawna) Orr, Kayla Land (Jared Elias), Kyle Land, grandsons Cypress, Cayson, Dawson, Liam, Jo, grandma Beverly Gobin, parents Ted (Pam) Orr, Valda Gobin (Herb Spires), brothers Rick (Sherrie) Orr, Caleb (Branda) Orr, Josh (Crystal) Orr and many aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews, cousins, and friends. He is now reunited with his brother Teddy.

A celebration of Chad’s life will be held at one of his favorite places, Tulalip Resort Casino on Saturday, June 21st at 5pm in the Orca Ballroom. In lieu of cut flowers, please consider bringing a live plant.

MAY 29, 1959 – MAY 27, 2025

Laurie Lynn Cepa passed away peacefully in her home on the Tulalip Reservation, surrounded by family and friends. Born in Seattle, Washington, Laurie was a proud descendant of the Snohomish, Jamestown S’Klallam, and Lummi peoples. 

Laurie was a lifelong learner and a passionate hobbyist. She found joy in knitting, macramé, basket weaving, wool spinning, gold panning, baking, and beadwork. She shared her artistic talents with others, teaching beading to members of the Tulalip community to preserve cherished traditions. Laurie also had an appreciation for the outdoors—she loved boating, fishing, crabbing, and camping. She was intrigued by stories of the past, immersing herself in genealogical research to uncover the histories of her family and friends.

Laurie approached her professional life with warmth and dedication. She worked at Seafirst Bank as a Legal Support Clerk then found success as a Real Estate Broker. Known for her kindness and approachability, she was a favorite administrator for students as Registrar at Ingraham High School, Franklin High School, and the Juvenile Detention Center. She retired as an Administrative Assistant at Quil Ceda Casino. 

Laurie had a big heart and a sharp wit. She was loved for her friendly demeanor, openness, humor, and the meaningful conversations she sparked with people. To know Laurie was to know laughter, storytelling, and a respect for culture and community. 

Laurie was preceded in death by her parents, Larry Cepa (a member of Tulalip Tribes), and Carol (Shiplet) Cepa. She is survived by her siblings, Dennis Cepa of Tulalip, WA and Lisa Cepa of Everett, WA; uncle Larry Trimm of Duvall, WA; special cousins Sherry and Pete Guzman of Tulalip, WA; Godson, Kyle Sommer of New York, NY; beloved cats Baby, Mister, and Peaches; and a large extended family of cousins and friends. Laurie is laid to rest at the Tulalip Tribes Mission Beach Cemetery.

A celebration of her life will be held, Monday, June 2, 2025 at 10 AM at Schaefer-Shipman Funeral Home.

Friday, March 23rd, 1973 – Sunday, April 27th, 2025

Jason Ian Kona, a Tulalip Tribal Member, was born on March 23, 1973, In Hood River, Oregon. He passed away on April 27, 2025, at 52 years of age. He is preceded in death by his grandparents Ruth and Ervin Rodgers, Bertha and Isaac “Ike” Kona; mother, Helen Kona; wife Elizabeth Kona; friend Terry Smith; and dog, Tank.

Jason graduated high school from Columbia High in White Salmon, where he lived his whole life. He excelled in many sports such as weightlifting, football, and baseball.

Jason always knew how to have a good time. Endless laughs, smiles, and unforgettable memories were created throughout his life.

He enjoyed spending his days on the river, around a fire, and on his down time- playing his guitar; but most of all he loved spending time with his children and grandchildren.

He is survived by his son, Seth Bierbower-Kona; daughters, Madison and Rylee Kona; grandchildren, Brynlee, Beau and Maizey, father, Lewis Kona; brothers Steve Kamekona and Tracy Kona; as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Wesley Calvin Warbus Sr, age 77, of Stanwood, passed away April 14, 2025, at his residence. He was born May 27, 1947 in Everett, WA, a son of the late Frank Warbus, member of the Lummi Nation Tribe and Rebecca Shelton, member of the Tulalip Tribes. Wesley held positions as a fisherman, mill worker, tree topper, sales associate, and line cook. He enjoyed being a bingo player, casino slots, and being an avid gardener and bird watcher as well as spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren, and his great-grandchildren.

Wesley is survived by his wife, Elaine Warbus, children: Jack, Wesley Jr, Laura Minor, Nita Jackson, and Candace Denning. Grandchildren: Hadley, Lennon, Divante, Jontae, Kieshadua, Aissa, and Areyah. Great grandchildren: Kamden, Rhamell and baby Shai. Siblings: Steven Warbus, Nina Goodman, Janice Arthur, Myrna Hollen, and Debora Rowell.

‍ Wesley was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Rebecca Warbus, brothers William Shelton, and Joseph Warbus, and his nephew, Lance Warbus.

Funeral service will be held at the Tulalip Tribes Gathering Hall on Friday, April 18, 2025.

JANUARY 9, 1960 – APRIL 7, 2025

Charles Blatchford, a devoted father, grandfather, and proud U.S. Marine, passed away on April 7, 2025. Straight out of high school, he joined the United States Marines and continued his service in the Marine Reserves. For 32 years, he dedicated himself to the Tulalip Tribes Casino. Charles was a man who worked hard, loved deeply, and found joy in the simple moments—especially road trips with his son Brian and time spent with his beloved grandchildren.He is survived by his children, Jenny and Brian; his grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and his loyal fur baby, Buddy. He was preceded in death by his beloved son, C.B. Charles’s strength, laughter, and unwavering love will live on in all who knew him.

An evening service will be held Monday, April 14, 2025 at 6 PM at the Tulalip Gathering Hall. Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at 10:00 AM at the Tulalip Gathering Hall with burial to follow at Mission Beach Cemetery.

1957-2025

Our beloved dad, grandpa, great-grandpa, uncle and friend, Charles Comenote Sr., was born in Everett, WA to George and Pauline Comenote. He was a lifelong resident of Tulalip. He was a simple, humble man who believed in the lord, loved his children and his family, and would give you the shirt off his back. He was always helping his people when he could, he tried walking this life with no enemies, if he was wrong, he would try and make it right. He worked for The Tulalip Tribes logging crew, he was a lifelong fisherman, crabber and diver. He leaves behind a loving family, friends, fishing buddies, and community who will miss him dearly. He is welcomed by many ancestors who traveled before him.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2025 at 10 AM with burial to follow at Mission Beach Cemetery.

Michael E. Taylor, 81, of Camano Island, WA, passed away on February 17th, 2025, in Stanwood, WA. Born on January 14th, 1944, to Edwin and Ruth Ella Taylor in Sacramento, CA, Michael’s early years were shaped by the military lifestyle as his family moved from base to base across the country, although he spent the majority of his youth in Sacramento.

Michael met his beloved wife, Doris, during their high school years in Carlisle, PA, where he was a senior and she was a sophomore. Their enduring love blossomed through letters exchanged nearly every day for seven years before they married in 1969. Together, they created a life filled with adventure, celebrating 64 years of marriage last June. They lived in various homes, including a floating residence on Lake Union in Seattle, an adobe house in Santa Fe, NM, and a cedar log house in rural Okanogan, WA, before settling in their waterfront home on Camano Island. Doris, who passed away in October 2024, was Michael’s steadfast partner throughout their journey. He is survived by their daughter Meghan and grandson Desmond, as well as the eight foreign exchange students they welcomed into their lives, who became part of their extended family.

After graduating high school, Michael pursued his passion for philosophy and earned a law degree from the University of California at Davis Law School as part of its inaugural graduating class. He entered the legal profession during a pivotal time, becoming one of the early advocates for tribal governments as an in-house attorney. For over 50 years, Michael applied his exceptional legal skills in support of the rights and sovereignty of Indian Nations and Tribes.

In his illustrious career, he represented the Quinault Nation in the landmark case, United States v. Washington (The Boldt Decision), successfully affirming and defending the treaty fishing rights of the tribe and establishing a precedent for tribal self-governance. His dedication led him to work with Pueblo Legal Services in New Mexico and later as General Counsel for the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, where he played a significant role inprotecting tribal sovereign rights and managing critical litigation concerning reservation lands.

Moving across the Cascades, he served as General Counsel for the Tulalip Tribes, where he spearheaded economic development initiatives, including the creation of Quil Ceda Village, a vibrant commercial center that serves the Tulalip community. Even after retiring from his role as a Tribal attorney, Michael continued to share his wisdom and experience as a Tribal Court and Appellate Court judge. 

Throughout his career, Michael was a champion for tribal members, tirelessly working to empower them to take leadership roles in the legal field. His legacy includes mentoring many who now serve as attorneys for tribes across Indian Country. Among many awards he received, was the Goldmark Award in 1993, recognizing his exceptional leadership in the quest for equal justice in Washington State.

Michael E. Taylor was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, whose impact on the legal rights of Native American people and the strength of tribal governance will be felt for generations. He held a lifelong enthusiasm for stringed instruments, particularly the banjo, spent much of his time hiking through the mountains, rollerblading on freshly laid pavement, and diligently contributed to his much prized woodpile. The collections of bottles, stamps, license plates, coins, and mismatched gloves rescued from the side of the road give a glimpse into his quirky personality. He now rests peacefully alongside his life partner, Doris, knowing that together they made the world a better place through their love and dedication to others.

Kanim Lee Taige Posey was born in Everett, WA on June 5, 1996. He was called home on March 18, 2025. He was a very proud Tulalip Tribal Member who exercised his Treaty Rights hunting, fishing, and shell fishing. He was a loving son, grandson, brother, nephew, cousin, friend and father to 5 beautiful children and one precious angel baby.

Kanim was an athlete. His hockey team placed 3rd in the Nation. He was an outstanding baseball catcher with a great arm that surprised people with his speed. He had quick enough reactions to save lives. He was a hard-working man just like his Papa, he exercised his Treaty Rights and defended them with passion. He loved the water and land, they were not just places he fished and hunted, but they were a part of him. He spent countless hours on Tulalip Bay, and in his U&A San Juan lands. He utilized his rights to provide for his family and community.
Kanim was fiercely loving and loy

His legacy will live on in the waves he fished, the lands he hunted, and the people who loved him. Kanim was preceded in death by his son, Nicholas Posey; Brother, Keaden Posey; Great Great-Grandmother, Edith Percival Parks; Great-Grandma, Winona Cooper; Great Grandpa, Lloyd Posey; Grandpa, Lloyd “Grumpy” Grow; Uncle, Dwayne Posey; Great-Grandma, Elizabeth Posey; Aunt, Marilyn Posey; Great-Grandpa, Thomas Gobin; Cousins, Crystal Gobin, Teddy Orr, Dennis Boon and Derek Halstead.

Kanim is survived by his parents, Dana (Crystal) Posey, Nikki Thompson Posey; Sister, Katie Dire; Grandparents, Dean and Debra Posey, Rikki Kellog Grow; Aunts, Becky Posey, Kim Thompson, Brett (Bryan) Parker; Uncle, Tommy (Santana) Thompson; Special Cousins, Keani Posey, Joseph Hatch Jr. (Kiana), Tnessa (Hayden), Ratina (Josh), Teague Parker, Kenzie Thompson, Jayden Thompson, and too many more to be named; His children, AraBella Lee, Saleesta Dae, Kamila, Zeriah, and Khloe Posey.

An evening service will be held Friday, March 21, 2025 at 6:00 PM at the Tulalip Gathering Hall. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, March 22, 2025 at 10 AM at the Gathering Hall with burial to follow at Mission Beach Cemetery.