John W. Stamets

I just found out about John´s passing and was saddened to learn of it. He was the photographer on the Seattle Sun when I worked there in the early 1980s. I never forgot his kindness towards me, which involved championing my writing at an early stage of my career.

John will always live in my memory.

I’m at John 40 years ago when he was on the streets photographing the events and protests in the wake of the murders of Gene Viernes and Silme Domingo. His series of photos of Alaskeros remain vivid in my mind, and let those not be forgotten.

John’s work documenting the quest for justice stands out in my memory - more than the wedding photos he took when I was married.

What a fine eye he had. Glad his work is archived at the UW.

it's been 3 years and I found out today of John's passing. I am very sad. I have great memories of our friendship in early 80s when he worked with Seattle Sun and thought me to use his dark room and with his direction I developed some of his black and white pictures of cannery workers. Over the years, We'd see each other around the city and it was always great to find out what he was up to at that moment. One time I saw him at the market with a camera hanging from his neck and his finger...

I was looking for something in a room in our shop building. On the shelf sat a black and white photo from 1-25-86, signed by Mr. Stamets. I have queried family about this intriguing photograph with no luck. It is haunting me, the people, the building, why it was left here...So, today I decided to look for information and this is the first sight I chose to view. Mr. Stamets is obviously well loved and respected. He sounds like someone I wish I had known. I am saddened by the loss all who've...

I was saddened to learn of John's death, but not surprised at all the wonderful reminiscences. I still remember him as a distinctive and memorable presence on the Mercersburg campus back in the 60's, and send my condolences to his family.

I just found out about John's death, somewhat belated. John and I, along with my first wife Chris, were young photographers in a very different Seattle. He was a top flight photographer, with an eye for composition, always with a camera, and had a lucky streak for timing. I saw him not long after his great work with the Husky Stadium collapse, and to him it was just that, luck. But you know that it is also skill of the trade, and the fact that he saw what might happen and stopped. Many...

Deep condolences to John's family, the UW community, and all who knew this kind and gentle spirit. I have fond memories of talking photography and running into John at all places around Seattle. An inspiration to many and an example of steadfast love to his art.