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Jeffrey Adkinson Obituary
Jeffrey Charles Adkinson
He was preceded in death by his father, Norman Adkinson.
Jeff is survived by his mother, Gerri Adkinson, of Snohomish, Washington; two children, Nick Adkinson and Christeen (Joe) Daoust, of Marysville, Washington; sister, Melonie (John) Claybrook, of Snohomish; brother, Dirk (Sarah) Adkinson, of Everett; the love of his life and fiance, Ila Rosiepetal, of Marysville; his grandchildren whom he adored, Robin, Ella, and Josalyn Daoust and Trevor Adkinson; and nieces and nephews, Jessica and Tyler Claybrook and Lily Adkinson.
Jeff honorably served in the United Stated Navy from 1981-1985. Afterwards he joined his father at the family business, Video West on Broadway in Everett where, in 1995, he became the owner and sole proprietor. Over the years Jeff earned the admiration and respect of his customers because he took extreme pride in providing outstanding customer service. This dedication demanded long hours and many sacrifices on Jeff's part.
During family gatherings a favorite pastime was playing Trivial Pursuit. Jeff will always be remembered for his reign as THE VIDEO KING where his knowledge of movies was unrivaled.
Most recently Jeff joined Superior Marine and was embracing the challenge of a second career.
A celebration of Jeff's life will be held between 1 - 4 p.m., Saturday, January 13, 2007, at Video West, 2501 Broadway, Everett. Casual attire.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a trust fund for Jeff's grandchildren at PO Box 1510, Monroe, WA 98272.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jeffrey Adkinson
Sponsored by His friends at Superior Marine Service.
Kelley Vice
January 1, 2025
Jeff was a great guy. I wish he was still here. I'm sure the rest of you do too.
Joshua Millard
December 31, 2024
Gone but not forgotten.
Still remember what was the best times we had for a short time.
Kelley Vice
December 31, 2023
Gosh, has it been 18 years? Hard to believe time goes by so fast.
Jeff was great! Some of my very best days were when I would go to the video store. Anywhere else it would have been a 15 or 20 minute trip, but with Jeff there was usually up to an hour talking and joking after the videos were picked out. I miss him a lot.
Kelley Vice
December 31, 2022
Jeff was a great guy. Still miss him.
Joshua Millard
November 9, 2022
What is there to say about Jeff other than the obvious...he was and is the biggest influence that someone has ever had on my life.
My earliest memories of renting video games and movies. Never knew then he'd grow into being the first father figure I had in my life that I felt had time for me. To this day I remember Jeff for being the most honest man I have ever met. He wasn't perfect but he was what I wanted and needed at that point in my life. I miss him everyday of my life and he will never be replaced.
Everyday we've lived without Jeff here has been a little less full of love and laughter. I'll see you again one day and I'm doing my best to make you proud.
Love you
JR Berry
January 27, 2007
I worked for Jeff for the past 10 years. He was always there when I need help. He would be the first person to offer anything. I will always remember him and I standing behind the counter and quoting "The Simpsons". Thank you Jeff for the memories.
Barbara Chase
January 16, 2007
Jeff was such a nice guy. He always greeted us by our first names when we entered the video store. Always smiling and always pleasant.It's sad to not have Jeff with us and sad to see the empty store.
Our caring and loving thoughts to his family and friends.
The Chase Family
Steven Larson
January 15, 2007
God truly broke the mold that made Jeff's image and personality. I first met Jeff in the late 1980's when we had moved to the area. I rented videos from him almost daily and we fast became friends. He had a wealth of information about the movie industry as well as recent and past releases. He contributed dearly to my church and me by allowing us to place posters in his window for our Christmas shows. He was a true friend and his passing at such a young age has been devastating to my family and me. I feel the world could have used him a bit longer to bring joy into peoples lives the way he did. But perhaps God desired an angel with a big heart to sit beside him and his blessed son Jesus. Whatever the reason for his premature departure, he will always live in the hearts of my family and me. God bless you Jeff, and hope to see you on my last day.
Steven
Geoffrey Wrigg
January 14, 2007
My name is Geoffrey Charles Wrigg, and like many others, I was both shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of Jeff, the "neighborhood video guy" and my near-namesake.
I moved to north Everett from Montana in the spring of 2002, and Jeff was one of the first people I met here. I had a very rough time the first year and a half or so with work and personal issues. I couldn't afford to rent movies very often, but when I could, I knew that there was one friendly face I could count on seeing -- Jeff's -- during a time in my life when friendly faces were seemingly few and far between.
I wasn't a very frequent customer of Video West, but even as a semi-regular, I could see that Jeff was a person who put 100% into whatever he was doing: being a successful business owner, providing quality customer service, being an attentive boyfriend, and being a friend to everyone at the store counter.
Obviously, Jeff had many other facets to his life, which I only learned about from reading his obituary. But from what I knew from seeing Jeff in the store, I'm sure that in those unseen (to me) areas of his life, he poured his heart out 100%, as he did in what I could see.
As a customer, neighbor, and friend at the store, I will miss Jeff deeply. I consider myself privileged and blessed to have known him, and I wish I'd gotten to know him better. My thoughts, prayers, and sympathies are with Jeff's many friends, colleagues, and very many loved ones.
Blessings to all,
Geoff "the neighbor guy"
Lisa Ruddell
January 13, 2007
My deepest sympathy goes out to you all....I am in shock, I just found out about Jeffs passing. I lost my husband almost 11 years ago and Jeff was one of the few people that gave me a shoulder to cry on always positive advise. Jeff was a special friend, employer and so much more....I knew Jeff for 17 years and I will dearly miss him.
Debra Brask
January 13, 2007
To Nick and Loved ones: We all Thank-you for sharing Jeff with us.It has been a pleasure knowing him for 17 years.He was such a wonderful friend.We grieve with you.Alway's remember the good times.Someday we will all be together again in God's Kingdom.Our prayer's are with you!
Susan Martin
January 13, 2007
I met Jeff 5 years ago when I first moved to Everett and was alone after a divorce and getting clean and sober. I didnt go out much and watched a lot of movies. I didnt have a DVD player and not many places still rented VHS. I walked into VideoWest and was greeted by someone that was like an old friend. Jeff would talk to me, show me great movies and he would even hold movies out that he knew I would like. I was in almost every day and would stay and talk for an hour. I loved how he remembered my name after only one visit. I watched him with all his customers and he had such a one on one relationship with all of us. His son was just as polite and gave great customer service as well as his dad. I am so sad to hear of this. I can't believe that someone so young and full of life is gone. He is watching movies in heaven and helping God select the very best in audio visual entertainment there is to offer. God Bless Jeff Adkinson. I hope we do all we can to see that his shop remains open. Even with all these huge video rental places making renting movies so easy that we don't even have to leave our houses...I am going to take that giant step out my front door and go rent from VideoWest, to insure it's remaining active and prosperous. I will miss you Jeff.
nick adkinson
January 12, 2007
To all our friends in the community! Thank you for all your kind words and memories! After my father passed away i could not understand why god called him home, esspecially at such a young age. I still have no answer, but one thing I have learned (And believe in this day and age every person on this planet should learn) is that one of the greatest gifts you can give another person is simply a little bit of time. To take a few minutes to be involved in another persons life, even though it seems so small a task it can profoundly change a persons life without them even knowing it. If only one positive message can be sent from this terrible tragedy, I hope it is this! So the next time you think of my father please remember this and take some time for your fellow human being, no matter what the situation may be every person on this planet could use a little interaction from a friendly voice!
Thank you all!
I love and miss you dad!!!
Al Beauchamp
January 12, 2007
I honestly dont know where to begin, i met Jeff for the first time back in i think 1996, when i wandered in to see if he would do business with me,he bought some stuff for the store from me and we were friends ever since..I cant tell you how much time i spent in his store talking with him about life , we had alot in common including the ages of our kids , 4years ago my friend Steve ,Jeff and I went to Vegas for 4 days, one of the best trips ever for me down there, too much fun!! i drove by the store 3 weeks ago on a rare time thru Everett, I live in Burlington now, and i saw Jeff hunched over the counter doing his thing, i said to myself I should stop and say Hi, knowing that he would be happy to see me as it had been quite a while since we had seen each other........I really wish I had, I really do..JR thx for opening the door and telling me after I drove there to find out....I could tell by the look in your eye that you knew i was really upset....live every day like its your last .. your friend Al Beauchamp ( Totem Foods)
Betty schireman
January 12, 2007
We met Jeff back in 1989 when renting a movie from his store. I drove by yesterday and was totally shocked at the sign. Jeff was such a terrific man, always had the answer to any question I had usually one that had me in stiches hours after I left his store. Our sympathies go to his family. We will truly miss his wit.
Jeff & Betty Schireman (Everett)
"Pete" Petersen
January 11, 2007
To Ila and all of Jeff's family,
Jeff was by far one of the best people I have ever met. He was one of the best employees I have had. Honest, professional, courteous,and dedicated. I received so many comments as to his politeness.
What is more important is the fact that he had become such a great friend. He always had such a cheery disposition and positive attitude. A smile and a good word was your reward for simply meeting him. He was truly a joy to be around.
Ila, all of us here greive along with you and the families, Jon and I especially. Please take care of yourselves.
The world has lost a good man. Our loss, is heaven's gain.
He will be missed.
James Douglas
January 11, 2007
After reading the article in the Herald ,I thought about how my experience of talking to Jeff was very similar. He always knew your name, and could talk about whatever cinema interest you had.Where else can you find great music DVD's? I found Yellow Submarine there. My Grandson and I have rented it many times. Blockbuster? No way, R.I.P. Brother
Sadie McDermott
January 11, 2007
Jeff was one of the good ones. He always treated people with respect. He was a man who let people know that we are all people part of the same family no matter who you are . He was a funny guy and made me laugh at few times. In the time Ila had been with Jeff I never saw her happier and more sure of who she was. We will all miss Jeff.
Dave Barr
January 11, 2007
I was a former employee of Video West and was greatful to Jeff because he hired me at a time when I really needed a job. It was a shock to hear that he passed away as he was so young. Even though I was only employed at Video West for a short time, I met some great people there. One of which is one of my best friends now. If Jeff would have never hired me, It would have never happened. I know he thought I was over qualified at the time, but he gave me the chance and I will forever be greatful for that. I remember when he was working he really enjoyed his job and he always liked talking with his customers. I thought that was great. He really did care for his customers.
ila rosiepetal
January 10, 2007
I wrote in this book once but the book did not show what I said. Jeff was more than just my video guy. I have known Jeff for 8 years. we talked many hours in the little store about movies and things. over time I fell in love with jeff and spent the last two years of his life as his companion. he brought out the best in me and for that I will always be in his debt. He was the only man I ever truly loved.
ila rosiepetal
January 10, 2007
i have known Jeff for eight wonderful years the last two years I spent as his companion. he will leave a hole in my heart that will never be filled. I too fell in love with his smile in the video store. We spent hours talking about movies and life. He was the kindest most repectfull man I have ever known. The good truly do die young as I saw in the only man I ever loved.
Christeen Daoust
January 10, 2007
To all of our customers and friends, thank you for your comments, memories, and condolences. My dad was a great guy and will be missed more than I can say. I remember visiting with my dad after school as a kid and seeing how happy his customers made him. I don't think any of us who knew him will ever forget his laugh. He would just throw his head back and let it roll, loud, proud, and long. Everything had a bright side in his eyes. I loved my dad very much and I will miss the laughter and joy he brought to me and my family.
Jimmy Anderson
January 10, 2007
Jeff, It is true once again that only the good die young! You will be remembered more than missed Brother. God Speed!
Brenda McTee
January 10, 2007
Dear Adkinson Family,
I was very lucky to know Jeff through his lifelong friendship with my brother Mark. When we were young I was the bratty little sister that Jeff wanted to ingnore but never did.
As we grew older I found a new respect for what a wonderful man he was personally and professionally.
He will truly be missed by me and my family.
Love,
Brenda McTee & Family
Thomas Van Wyck
January 10, 2007
You were the best. We are much poorer, heaven much richer. Godspeed.
CHAR EAGLE
January 10, 2007
To the Family,
I have known Jeff for a long time, He would talk with me for hours about my son that I had lost years ago,he would listen and let me cry, laugh or scream but no matter what by the time I left the store he had me laughing. thats the kind of man he was. I will miss him more than anyone will ever know. I know your loss and will be praying for you all.
Connie & Cecil Rodriguez
January 9, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Lindsey Davis
January 8, 2007
To: Ila and the loss of her loved one.
My thoughts and prayers are with you in the time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort and closer.
I would like to say on behalf of Ila. I have only worked with you for a few months, but those few months you have shown true love and compassion for Jeff.
I remember the many times that you have called him on your cell phone asking if it was OK to pick up a extra shift. I have never seen true LOVE before you and Jeff. I can only hope and pray that my husband and I will have that many years down the road. My best regards to you and your family, remember to keep your head up high and stay strong.
Love Lindsey Davis and MCC
PS
We are all very happy to have you with are company.
Tonia Kimball
January 8, 2007
I am so sorry for your loss. I have known Jeff since I was in middle school and would stop in after school. Jeff always made time to have 1 on 1 with all of his customers. He will greatly be missed.. He was always so happy about his kids and grandchildren..
Tony and Mitzy Cordel
January 8, 2007
Jeff was a wonderful store owner and my husband and I enjoyed visiting the video store just to talk to Jeff (and Nick). He was always willing to chat and help find just the right movie. We will miss him very much.
Marni Lewis
January 8, 2007
Jeff was one of the first people we met when we moved to Everett. Since then, practically everyone we know knew him. He was such a nice person. We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Robert Kahlor
January 7, 2007
My name is Robert Kahlor, I always bought videos from Jeff. He always could anwser questions on just about any movie. I was shocked to hear of his passing. He truley was amazing his knowledge of movies. I will surley miss him at the store. Respectfully. Robert Kahlor.
Jim English
January 7, 2007
It was always a pleasure to stop by the store and find Jeff there, ready with advice for a movie or, when there was time, just to be able to chat. More than someone who provided a great service, he became a friend over the years.
Kent and Cindy Barbeau
January 7, 2007
Jeff's family: We drove by Video West and our hearts broke as we saw the reader board. We hadn't been in the store over the holiday, we had no idea. My husband went to school with Jeff and we've both gotten to know him better over the last few years. We will miss him terribly.... his smile, his sense of humor, his diligence in assisting us as a customer and his stories of love for his family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Rainer Elliott
January 7, 2007
Jeff was a very friendly worker who didn't hesitate to ask about someone's weekend or holiday. I know his daughter from highschool and wish her the best!
Kathi Yingling
January 7, 2007
Melonie and family:My heart goes out to you and all of your family in this difficult time. I was so saddened to hear of your loss. I did not know Jeff, but he has the same smile as you, Melonie, and your wonderful mom Gerri. Please know that both Ralph's and my thoughts are with you. God bless this family in their time of sorrow.
Mike Parry and Teresa Mitchell
January 7, 2007
Dear Nick, Christeen and family and JR,
Please accept our sincerest sympathy for the recent loss of your father, friend and employer.
Jeff perfected the art of customer service, owning and managing a "principled" business. We so appreciated his political perspective, his gentle unassuming nature and his extensive knowledge of film.
With no cable bill to soothe our stress and numb our minds, we so enjoyed putting our "entertainment" bugdet into supporting one of our local business owner's tills. With pleasure we paid our chronic late fees; we were supporting someone we liked and respected.
We will sincerely miss Jeff and his contributions to our lives and community. Please find comfort in his legacy, his principled life and his love and respect for each of you.
Sincerely,
Susan and (son) Dan Robinson
January 7, 2007
Nick, Family and Vidio family. We met Jeff and Nick many years ago at vidio west. I will so miss the huge smile I got from Jeff everytime I walked into the store and the harty hello. He knew you by name and that made you feel special. I will miss the joking and telling of stories we passed around together. It is a terrible loss to all who knew and loved him. My heart goes out to all of Jeff's family. My prayers are with you.
Kelley Vice
January 7, 2007
I spent many an afternoon chatting with Jeff at the video store.He was a terrific guy with a great sense of humor, and I felt privileged to call him friend. I'll miss you Jeff.
Keira and Jason Jamerson
January 6, 2007
Jeff's family,
We can't begin to tell you how sorry we are for your loss. It's heartbreaking.
Jeff was truly one of the nicest, most sincere men we ever met. He will be sorely missed.
Scott & Tom Armbrister/Litwiller
January 6, 2007
With Heartfelt Sympathy.
Thinking of the family with deepest sympathy and hoping special memories of your loved one will be a soucre of comfort.
Jeff, we will miss you my friend.
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