June Elizabeth Lamson

June Elizabeth Lamson passed away peacefully on September 3, 2016 at her home on Mercer Island, surrounded by her family. On April 10, 1919 June Elizabeth Lowery was born to Marguerite and Doane Lowery in Hartford, Connecticut. However, she lived most of her childhood years in southern California where her parents were both educators. Her father founded Flintridge Preparatory School in La Canada California which is still a thriving institution today. Her mother established and ran a private pre-school/kindergarten for many years.

June was an only child, and enjoyed a full life of athletic and intellectual accomplishments including early awards for equestrian, swimming, diving, and gymnastics. She was an excellent student and finished primary and secondary school ahead of her age peers, entering Scripps College at the age of 17, and graduating at age 21 with the class of 1940. June had (and continued to have throughout her life) a keen interest in the Humanities including all types of literature, writing, poetry, philosophy and journalism. She was the editor of the Scripps college year book and was actively involved in the school literary events and publications. After graduation from Scripps she worked for the Los Angeles Times and The Claremont Currier in the field of journalism which was a passion for her.

She married her husband of 70 years, Robert Tashian Lamson, on April 5, 1941. The couple started their life together in Ontario, California, but shortly moved to Seattle, Washington. Her husband Robert (Bob) preceded her in death on April 20, 2011. June is survived by her five children Robert D. Lamson, Wendy Lamson Collier, Catherine J. Lamson, Stephen L. Lamson, and Barbara Lamson Schmidt. She is also survived by eight grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. In addition June enjoyed being a mentor to many young people.

June was active throughout her life as a poet, passionate literary teacher, lifelong learner, and inspiration to many. She was an active volunteer in many organizations including the Junior League, the Seattle Children’s Home Society, Mercer Island PTA, Children’s Orthopedic Guild, Women’s University Club, and many others. June’s creative spark, wisdom and sense of humor continued to inspire those around her up until the time of her passing.

A celebration of life will take place on Sunday October 16, 6:00 pm at the Mercer Island Community Center, Mercer Room.

Please sign the online memorial guestbook at washelli.com