Mark Litchman

1925 - 2021

Mark Litchman
April 14, 1925 - September 8, 2021
Tacoma, Washington - On September 8, 2021 Mark Leonard Litchman, former Washington state legislator and attorney, passed away peacefully at age 96. Mark grew up in Seattle and attended Roosevelt High School. Mark's parents (attorney Mark Litchman Sr. and Sophie Litchman, RN) were deeply committed to public service and activism, which greatly inspired Mark and his sister, Jean Litchman Trapido.
A natural born athlete, Mark excelled at football and baseball, and was privileged to play for legendary coach, Amos Alonzo Stagg, while at University of the Pacific.
In WWII Mark served as a US Navy officer, then earned his B.A. and law degree at University of Washington. He was an attorney and Judge Pro-Tem.
Drawn to public service, Mark served 18 years (1955-1973) as a legislator (Democrat) in the Washington State House of Representatives. He represented King county's 45th district.
When first elected in 1955, Mark and colleague Leonard Sawyer, were the youngest representatives ever elected in Washington state. Mark was House Majority Leader in 1961, and Assistant House Minority Leader 1967-1969. In 1960, Mark and his wife, Claire, were delegates to the national Democratic convention. Claire cast her vote for Adlai Stevenson, and Mark cast his vote for JFK.
Post-legislature, Mark was a Deputy Insurance Commissioner from 1973-1977. His diverse background included real estate development, and he also founded a non-profit holistic health organization.
Mark was dearly beloved by Claire (married 72 years) and their daughters, Marlene, Cheryl, and Bambi.
Mark was keenly intelligent, friendly, funny, generous, and kind. He had a positive good nature, wonderful smile, and is greatly missed.
Life celebration to be scheduled. For details email: infoMLday22@gmail.com
Survivors include: daughter, Bambi Lin Litchman, son in law, Mike Boggess, and nephews: Paul and Nicholas Trapido.
Heartfelt gratitude is expressed to all at Franke Tobey Jones in Tacoma, and Franciscan Hospice. Remembrance donations appreciated.