Nina Michel Webster

What are the measured moments in the life of one’s child that bring joy, that bring pride? The first smile, just a few days old? The first steps, wobbly and giggly toward a parent’s open arms? Those magical first words? The first blue ribbon? Which is happier; the first day of school, eager, excited and just a bit afraid, or the last day of college, equally eager, excited and still a bit afraid?

Nina Michel Webster, 35, born to Monika Michel Webster and David L. Webster, June 30, 1980, died in New York City on March 18, 2016 when her heart stopped on the way to the hospital.

From birth through high school, Nina was a Mercer Island resident who loved all the Island had to offer. She loved the water, learning to swim at a young age and enjoying the lake with her family and friends. As members of the Mercer Island Beach Club, Nina and her younger brother, Locke, were on the summer swim team every year, setting individual and relay records with her teammates. The summer leagues eventually led to swimming year round with the Chinook Swim Team and on the MI High School swim team. Individual perseverance and team values became part of her core. In high school she also enjoyed being on the Drill Team. Winters included skiing at Snoqualmie and Mt. Bachelor.

After high school she attended the UW, then transferred to The University of Arizona, in Tucson. Her dream had always been to live in New York City, with all it had to offer that was different, alluring, and it pulled her there immediately after university.

Though she found many challenges in New York, the city captivated her and became her home. After an accident some years ago, that nearly disabled her, she replied to a question, asking if she was staying in the city, with a succinct “Hell yeah!” She had found a wonderful partner and companion, Phil Lang, who, after her death, described their life as “A team. A very good team.” He was by her side to the end.

Sadly, her mother passed away just eight months ago at the Mercer Island home where Nina grew up. She is survived by her brother, Locke, her father and her teammate, Phil. Her ashes will be scattered in Lake Washington, where she spent so many happy summers.

So, what has been the last measured moment in my daughter’s life that brings joy, that brings pride? She was an organ donor, and through her tissue and bones, others may benefit.

Hark, now hear the sailors cry

Smell the sea and feel the sky

Let your soul and spirit fly into the mystic