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Jeffrey Brotman Obituary
Jeffrey Hart Brotman died peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday, August 1. He was born in Tacoma, Washington on September 27, 1942 to Bernie and Pearl Brotman. He attended the University of Washington and graduated with a BA in Political Science in 1964, and received his JD in 1967. Jeff married Susan Thrailkill, a Nordstrom executive, in 1976. They have two children: daughter Amanda Pearl, born 1979 and son Justin Hart, 1982.
Jeff grew up in a retailing family, his father Bernie founded Bernie's Mens Wear. Jeff worked in his dad's stores in high school and college. Later, he and his brother Michel operated Bottoms, a chain of stores for young women, as well as Jeffrey Michael. He went to Law School to "escape" retail, and after graduating, served as assistant Attorney General from 1967-68. He then founded a law firm with Earl Lasher, practicing Tax Law for seven years with Lasher, Brotman and Sweet. Jeff was drawn back into retail, founding Costco with Jim Sinegal in 1983. They were amazing partners and had deep respect and admiration for each other. Jeff served the company as Executive Chairman. Costco Wholesale now operates 736 stores in the US and abroad - the largest membership warehouse club in the world. They prided themselves in "doing the right thing" as exemplified Costco's mission: 1) Obey the Law, 2) Take care of your customers, 3) Treat your employees well, 4) Respect your Suppliers. If you do those four things, your shareholders will be rewarded.
Jeff served on numerous boards including Seafirst Bank and Starbucks, and was a trustee of the Seattle Art Museum. He was a Regent of the University of Washington from 1998-2011, and Board President in 2004.
Jeff served on the UW School of Medicine Board, the Medicine Strategic Initiative Committee, chaired the UW Investment Management Company (UWINCO), and served on UW's Committee on Real Estate. He Chaired the Campaign for Medicine for Campaign UW: Creating Futures. Jeff and Susan are among the co-chairs of UW's current Be Boundless Campaign. Jeff and Susan received the 2013 Gates Volunteer Service Award at UW. In 2015 Jeff was named Laureate Junior Achievement Puget Sound Business Journal Hall of Fame, and in 2016 UW's Foster School of Business Distinguished Leadership Award.
Jeff was involved in numerous civic organizations. He chaired the United Way Campaign in 1997 and continued to Chair the Million Dollar Round Table. He received the United Way 2014 Beacon Award for Visionary Philanthropy. Jeff and Susan received the 2005 First Citizen Service Award in recognition of outstanding civic service by the Seattle King County Association of Realtors and the Puget Sound Business Journal.
Survivors include Jeff's wife Susan, daughter Amanda, son-in-law Antoine Schetritt, grandsons Leo Marcel and Simon Hart; son Justin, daughter-in-law Margot; brother Michel, sister-in-law Valerie; Nephews Adam Brotman (Carrie), daughter Addison; Jason Brotman (Andy), son Jackson; Samantha Brotman (Rob). Brother-in-law and sister-in-law Grant and Dianne Thrailkill, niece and nephew; Stacy Thrailkill, Brian Thrailkill and numerous cousins.
For all his accomplishments, Jeff will be remembered most for his devotion to his family and friends, his intelligence, wit, his generosity of time and spirit. He was a great guy, he was the best.
Donations can be made in Jeff's name to the University of Washington, United Way of King County or the Seattle Art Museum.
A Memorial Service will be held at McCaw Hall Tuesday at 11:00 AM. The service can be accessed through live stream:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KRVqsSW3ZCU
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jeffrey Brotman
buck mcallister
April 11, 2018
I knew Jeff when he was an instructor on introduction to law. He appreciated and commended my writing and encouraged me to attend law school. He was kind enough to write letters of recommendation for me. Went to law school and have 40 years plus in the profession
Jeff was always and remained an interesting and astute person, a real mensch to his community and fellow citizens.
He did a lot for education and left a legacy of employment for thousands. A fine lawyer, but an even better retailer. Turns out we had a number of friends in common. And they are heart broken.
Never heard a bad word about him, really. Sure miss him. Thanks Jeff for being a fine person and good friend.
September 3, 2017
My sincere condolences. What a nice reputation to leave behind! He has touched many lives and they will not forget him. Find strength from our Heavenly Father through prayer.
Ayesha Aslam
August 20, 2017
To Family and Friends
I never actually met Jeff or even traveled to the same continent but I feel I had a connection with him. I have read a lot about him in the media and watched countless interviews to try and get to know the man whose legacy has given meaning to my adult life.
I would like to say a sincere thank you for all your hard work. If it wasn't for your Vision and hard work myself and millions other would not be in work and making a great living for ourselves.Thank you for giving us a platform and building a culture where we have not only learnt lessons to better our service but we can incorporate into our lives.
My deepest sympathies and condolences to all your loved ones. Thank you again from the bottom of my heart.
August 19, 2017
Jeff lived his life well and accomplished more than most. Sandy and I enjoyed his skills as a lawyer and warmth as a friend in the 1970's. Condolences to the family and friends....
Ed and Sandy Bigler
Hood Canal, WA
Rome Perretta
August 17, 2017
My deepest Condolences to your family and friends! Rest in peace and know that your legacy and company you helped build will continue to change the world and provide for the over 100 thousand employees and there families! I am one of those employees and I truly thank you for taking the chance in 1983 and giving me the life I have. Always grateful.
Rest in Peace
R. Perretta
M LR
August 16, 2017
I only met you once, whilst you visited the UK but I would like to thank you for the future you (Costco) gave me & my family.
I joined our Costco family (I thought fo the festive period only) 23 years on. I am still in love with Costco Wholesale! It is in my blood forever ❤.
Thank you for the opprotunity to join Costco, one huge worldwide Costco family - GNGB
Suthagar Panayadiyan
August 14, 2017
Deepest sympathy, may his soul RIP.
August 14, 2017
Thank you Jeff for giving so much to so many. Our thoughts are with your family and we wish them all a long life. They should be proud of how many lives you have touched. You have built a business that supports millions of people. An amazing feat. You completed this whilst remaining a well respected gentleman. What a great man!
Mustansar Mehmood
August 14, 2017
RIP Big man
Sam Sleck
August 14, 2017
My thoughts are with his family at this special time.
Joseph Rwamirindi
August 14, 2017
I am deeply saddened by the sad news of jeff's death.most of us are employed because of what this great man started.my condolences to the entire family and Costco as a worldwide business.
Lisa Rogers
August 13, 2017
To the Brotman Family - Very sad for your loss. What a legacy of giving, creativity, entrepeneurship and heart Jeff left. He will continue to inspire for a long, long time. Bless you all.
Lisa Rogers
Charli Hogan. .. costco#660
August 10, 2017
Many prayers and ANGEL WINGS to guide you all to a place where he is at peace . The life he has blessed you with was because of his love and greatness he had in his HEART.... I know he's done right by his employees..... so his FAMILY was cherish by such a rich soul... The world was a better world because of his presence.... BE PROUD ❤
Jessica Herren
August 10, 2017
I only met Jeff briefly but he had such an amazing spirit and energy. Thank you for all of your positivity that you gifted to the world. You will be missed. Condolences and love to all of the family.
Helen Boyer
August 9, 2017
Dear Susan and family, Through Jeff many things were made. In him was life, and his life was a light to so many others. May that light comfort you.
I heard Jeff speak a couple times at UW. He inspired anyone who met and heard him.
Wendy
August 9, 2017
It was honor to have known Jeff and I know he will be missed by so many. He was truly the whole package and made such an impact on all.
Linda (Mielke) Anderson
August 8, 2017
Dear Susan, I'm so very sorry for your loss. We have always been proud of you being from Hamilton and going to school with you. We have admired Jeff from a distance. Long time members of Costco, we appreciate all the good your company has done. May you find peace knowing how many are praying for you.
John Alley
August 8, 2017
Susan and family,
My heart felt condolences to all as Jeff's unexpected passing is a tremendous loss to all of us. I have known him since the very beginning of Costco and never met a more heartfelt, caring and generous individual in my life! We worked very closely together when he chaired the United Way campaign as he was deeply committed to this cause. We even made a personal bet on how much money we could raise. We exceeded the goal and I won the bet, which incidentally was a Costco hotdog! A few days later I received a signed hotdog coupon in the mail from him. Needless to say, I still have it to this day and will cherish it in memory. He was the best................ja
August 8, 2017
Susan and Family,
I am sending you all my deepest sympathies, love, and prayers for grace, comfort, peace, and strength. It was a privilege to have met Jeff at your wedding reception, Susan, and it was so apparent then how very kind, witty, warm, and loving he was. Lovingly, Lynn (Dale) Bandaruk (your friend from San Francisco)
"Be gracious to me, O God, be gracious to me, for my soul takes refuge in You; and in the shadow of Your wings I will take refuge until destruction passes by." Psalm 57:1
Firoz Lalji
August 8, 2017
Susan,
Please accept our sincerest condolences and know that we share your grief and loss. Jeff had become a very close and special friend, we had a special connection that is hard to describe. He was my role model for business, philanthropy and life in general. He was telling me that 70's is the 50's today and was looking forward to his retirement. He went peacefully, but 20 years too early. He will be sadly missed and najma and I are here for you.
Firoz
Jane Donovan
August 8, 2017
To the loved ones of Jeff Brotman, please accept my deepest condolences. As a employee of Costco for 24 years I have always had the greatest respect and admiration for Mr. Brotman, together with Jim Sinegal built an amazing company that has provided an extraordinary amount of employees like myself a life they would otherwise never had working elsewhere. From the bottom of my heart I thank your Husband, Father, Brother, Uncle, Friend for his amazing life. Rest assured his legacy is a great one. Well Done Sir.The World needs more Jeff Brotmans. May you all find comfort in each other and knowing Jeff is loved by all of us at Costco. #1177
Karen S
August 7, 2017
I was deeply saddened by the news of your loss. Jeff had an amazing vision that touched the lives of hundreds of thousands of people. I was blessed to be one of them. I pray that you all find great strength and peace during this difficult time.
My condolences to your family and friends.
Lisa Clements
August 7, 2017
Dear Susan and family, As a 32 year employee at Corproate I had the honor and pleasure of seeing Jeff around the office from time to time. He always had a smile and a hello. When Jim made the announcement last Tuesday one of my first memories was one of the first stock holders' meeetings. My parents were with me and I was able to introduce them to Jeff. My mom was so excited to meet him! My parents are both gone now but that is one of many happy memories I have of them and my life with Costco. As others have noted all Jeff did for so many will never be forgotten. His legacy will live on through you all. Thank you for sharing your husband and dad with all of us at Costco for so many years. May you find peace with time and joy in your memories. God bless you. Lisa Clements
Tom Teel
August 7, 2017
Susan and family, thinking of you during this most difficult of times. I celebrate my good fortune and that of everyone who had the privilege of having Jeff in their lives. I always admired his vision, energy, and commitment to everything and everybody during his journey through life. He once told me of what he wanted to accomplish in his life and has certainly exceeded even his ambitious goals. I wish my old college friend well as his journey continues!
Linda W
August 7, 2017
What and interesting Man. Sadden by your loss and it appears by the comments He was a man for all seasons. Please know that the God of all comfort hears your cries and He will rescue you with comfort and peace during this sad occasion Please call on Him. (Psalms145:18,19)
CC.
August 7, 2017
May 'God' give the BROTMAN FAMILY peace during this most difficult time. -Isaiah 9:7
August 7, 2017
My condolences to the family and friends. It hurts deeply to,lose a loved one may God grant you peace to cope with your loss Phillipians 4:6,7.
Angie Thrailkill- Seubert
August 7, 2017
Susan and family. Sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the whole family. May Jeff rest in peace knowing he lived and loved life to the fullest.
Diana Duex
August 6, 2017
I joined the Costco family 9/2/86. We were a small company; 22 locations that I quickly learned by name & number. I was a high school graduate, with no degree but a strong sense of commitment & work ethic. I retired in 2012 at the age of 51. Blessings & prayers to Jeff's family & the Costco family that I will forever be a part of. RIP Jeff. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your legacy
Brooke Nelson
August 6, 2017
A week ago today, Jeff was dancing with his grandson, Leo, at my daughter's wedding in Montana. He was smiling and happy. It was a wonderful, sunny day.
Jeff was an extraordinary man - in business, in humanitarian causes, but more than that, for me, in his personal connections. He could find common ground with everyone he met. He cared as much for the janitor as he did the CEO. He treated his family and extended family in a way that made us all feel loved. He was funny, fun, outgoing, and so incredibly interesting.
I sometimes joked with him about how nice he was to include his "hillbilly" cousins in his world. He'd roll his eyes, get a smirk on his lips, and say, "Well, You know how it is, I have to keep the wife happy"!
We will miss him so, so much.
Smiling after retirement!
Sharon McKee
August 6, 2017
I worked at Kirkland Costco from 2003 to 2016 it is an awesome place to work. I saw Mr Brotman many times over the years and remember his great smile. May he R.I.P. Hugs to his family:)
Stephenie Nelson (Irons)
August 6, 2017
My condolences and prayers are with the Brotman family as well as our Costco family. I have been with Costco since the 4th avenue store opened in 1983 and I remember Jeff as a gentle giant, a man dedicated to a vision that has gone far beyond what any of us could have imagined from our humble beginnings. Throughout the decades I have known Jeff to be kind, personable and professional. My life and the lives of many friends and family members have been transformed through our careers at Costco. Thank you for following your passion and co-founding this incredible company with Jim Sinegal. I am forever grateful to you.
The Victor Family
August 6, 2017
Dearest Susan, Amanda (and family) and Justin: Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time. We have such fond memories of Jeff- back to playing tennis and riding in his Rabbit convertible in Palm Springs. He truly was one in a million and our hearts are heavy with sadness. We hope that you all find comfort and strength in the days ahead in sharing all the wonderful memories you carry. With much love, The Victor's- Butch, Sharon, Brian, Amy and our families.
Scott Case
August 5, 2017
My sympathies and condolences to Brotman family -- the news hit me like a ton of bricks as well so I can not imagine the true pain they are dealing with.. Mr. Brotman (Jeff) was a true man of integrity - his smile and humor in the years I knew him was one I never forgot -- Even though I was a "lowly worker" he knew my name as I sat outside his "office" at Store #1 those first early months -- he never forgot the names of those he worked with and when I saw him over 20 years later after leaving Costco, he still recalled who I was and where I had move on to -- The world was blessed to have him for the time he was here AND I was pleased to have him as a mentor for the time I knew him -- May he be at rest and his family be at peace knowing he touched more lives than they may know
Tom Zumek
August 5, 2017
Jeff was truly a class individual and instrumental in helping Costco succeed through the years. Of all the accolades he will be accorded in the coming months, his philanthropy and commitment to family values will be the shining star of his legacy. Thoughts are with Susan and the family. He will be missed. Tom Zumek 30 years
Lynn
August 5, 2017
My sincere condolences to the family. May the God of all comfort be with you .
Dave Faraca
August 5, 2017
To the Brotman Family, our prayers and thoughts are with you.....Thank you Jeff......God Bless
Dave Faraca and family
David Young
August 5, 2017
I am a 30 year Costco employee and proud of it, I have a great job, life and family.....it all couldn't be possible with out a company owner like Jeff, as I read my company email about Jeffs death it really made me again appreciate again what and where I came from. I did have a chance to meet Jeff once at my buildings opening and truly an honor. To his family I am sorry for your loss,
August 5, 2017
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
August 5, 2017
Dear Susan and family: my thoughts are with you. May you find comfort only God can bring during this difficult time.
B H
August 4, 2017
My sincere condolences to the family of Mr. Brotman. May God comfort your hearts and strengthen you each day. Isa 57:18
Pat
August 4, 2017
My deepest sympathy to the Brotman family. Mr. Brotman has left behind an impressive business and personal legacy as well. May the God of all comfort give you comfort and strength through this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Bonni Dunn
August 4, 2017
Susan and family, I am so very sorry for you all. I've been thinking of you all week and praying for your strength. Your family is so very dear to me.. I love you.❤
Jane Gammie
August 4, 2017
Very kind and a sweetheart of a man
KELLEY
August 4, 2017
MAY THE THOUGHT OF KNOWING THAT FAMILY AND FRIENDS SHARE IN YOUR GRIEF BRING YU A MEASURE OF COMFORT.PLEASE READ PROV 17.17
August 4, 2017
Remembering your great love story today and always.
Jordan
August 3, 2017
Jeff will be missed. Jeff is as brave and righteous individual who saw many things that have inspired me to live that life that I live. Thank you for being a part of my family's life. I would like to wish the Brotman family peace and love. I will always remember you.
Scott Chamberland
August 3, 2017
Rest in Peace
Whitney Hines
August 3, 2017
Beloved gentleman....... Like no other
Marion
August 3, 2017
My heartfelt condolences to Susan and her children. My thoughts are with you in this time of such sudden grief. Wishing you peace and strengths in the time to come.
August 3, 2017
He will be missed. I thank him and his vision for changing my path in life. Without Costco, I wouldn't be who I am today. Prayers to the family. P Scott
C E
August 3, 2017
Sorry about your loss love may you find comfort, peace and strength in his memory. Our Loving Creator is always there to comfort us; Jeremiah 29:11; Reverlation 21:3
Robin Atkins
August 3, 2017
I don't know Mr. Brotman personally, but thank you for being a visionary and creating Costco. What an institution and legacy to leave behind! And thanks for all your philanthropy. He's truly left a mark in this world. Bless him and the rest of the family. I will light and candle and say a prayer for a great man.
Jan & Pat
August 3, 2017
Our thoughts and prayers for the family and friends. We are sorry for your loss.
August 3, 2017
My sincerest condolences are with the family and friends of Mr. Jeff Brotman.
Wells Family
August 3, 2017
With deep sympathy to the Brotman family, I am saddened to read of your loss. There are many praying for you to find peace and comfort as we look forward to the future when God will wipe away all of our tears and there will be no more sorrow. May the actions of Jesus Christ, at John 11:11-14, give you a sure hope of wonderful things to come from God in the future.
Tony Lund
August 3, 2017
My condolences to the Brotman family as I wish them comfort and peace. Mr. Brotman was an amazing, gifted, and generous man. I am so sorry for your loss. May the Almighty comfort you among those who mourn for Zion and Jerusalem.
TT
August 3, 2017
What a huge loss. My prayers are with the family during this time of bereavement.
August 3, 2017
Truly sorry for this great loss. Jeff's fine legacy will surely be remembered. May he forever be in our hearts and in God's book of life. (Rev.3:5)
Thea
August 3, 2017
I'm so very sorry to hear about your loss. And also may your family find comfort love and strength and with the loving support of family and friends at this time.
August 2, 2017
When someone you love becomes a memory the memory becomes a treasure. May the wonderful treasures fill your hearts with love and bring you peace. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of sadness. ( Hosea 13:14 ) J A
August 2, 2017
Thank you for being such a great man. You have changed my life for the better and for that, I thank you. God bless.
Cynthia Nelson
August 2, 2017
I am so proud that I was there at the inception of Costco in 1982 while at DlJ in Nyc.
August 2, 2017
So sorry for your loss, may the God of comfort grant you peace.
Steven Altamonte
August 2, 2017
He was a remarkable man who leaves an indelible legacy. He was in involved in many charities and philanthropy. My condolences to his wife children and family.Rest well Mr.Brotman Shalom Sir!
Al
August 2, 2017
My condolences and prayers to Mrs Brotman and family. May God grant solace to the family during this most challenging time. Mr Brotman was truly an amazing and compassionate gentlemen of integrity. We will always remember his legacy of philanthropy, and his generosity. With Love & Prayers
Adrian Barnette
August 2, 2017
We'll miss you !
August 2, 2017
Mr Brotman was a very hard-working man and so many peoples loved. I know that God love you,
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