Lyman H. Black Jr.

Lyman H. Black, Jr.

Lyman H. Black, Jr. passed away on March 15, 2013. He was surrounded by his wife Elizabeth and three daughters, Lynn Cooper, Susan Black, and Marnie Black.

Born on Bainbridge Island, Lyman was the 2nd child of Lyman H. Black and Marion Lewis Black. Lyman graduated as co-valedictorian and quarter-back of the football team from Lakeside School in Seattle. In 1943 Lyman graduated from Yale University in chemical engineering, and joined the Navy as a submariner. He served in the South China Sea.

At 16, Lyman met Liz Smith, 15, on a blind date. They were together from that day on, married in 1944, and celebrated their 68th anniversary in June 2012. Friends say they were always in love with each other and best of friends their whole lives.

Following the war, Lyman worked for Seattle's Black Manufacturing Company, even-tually as president, and later CFO of the SeaPac Corporation. In 1968, Lyman was active in Urban Renewal initiatives and the "Forward Thrust" propositions, successful at passing bonds for low income housing and parks, but losing the first drive for rapid transit. He was past president and Honorary Lifetime Board Member of the Children's Home Society of Washington.

Lyman and Liz raised their three daughters on Bainbridge Island. Both were active in many projects on the island. Lyman was involved in the Rolling Bay Presbyterian Church where he became an Elder of the church, and helped design the Wing Point Golf and Country Club. He acted in the Bainbridge Light Opera for 13 years.

Following retirement, Lyman and Liz lived in Seattle's Parkshore in Madison Park. He became an Interfaith volunteer for the homeless, tutored children, counseled individuals about financial issues, and was a central participant in the National Prayer Breakfast.

Lyman loved all gardens. He was treasurer of the Hardy Fern Society, and up until his last hour, worked tirelessly for his beloved earth.

Lyman is survived by his wife Elizabeth and daughters Lynn, Susan, and Marnie, his son-in-law John Cooper, his sister Janet Wegener, grandchildren Morgan and Jonathan, and great grandchildren Kayla, Madison, London, and Clara.

A short service and reception will be held at the Rolling Bay Presbyterian Church on Bainbridge Island on April 10th at 2 p.m.