John Richard "Jack" Humphrey

April 11, 1926 - February 11, 2016

John Richard "Jack" Humphrey Obituary (Age 89) Passed away February 11, 2016. He was born April 11, 1926 in Blue Creek, WA to John and Frances (Stanley) Humphrey. He attended Blue Creek School for 8 years, and graduated from Chewelah Jenkins High in 1944. Enlisted in the Army right out of high school during WWII where he served in the Signal Corp for 14 months in the South Pacific, and in Korea for 8 months. He worked for the Phone Co., Magnesite in Chewelah, a telegraph operator for Milwaukee R.R., Barney City Electric for 18 years traveling all over Stevens County, WA. Moved to Spokane in 1968 and worked at Don's Stereo as a tech for 30 plus years. All this time playing bass guitar and vocal with different bands. He married Darlene (Stickelmeyer) Werner in 1979.Playing music with Jerry Raver Trio at Cathay Inn for 15 years, with Gloria and the Ombreys at Eagles Lodge in CDA, Idaho. Also for Al Malsom, A.M. Express at Eagles Lodge Aerie No. 2. North Spokane for 20 years, traveling the northwest playing in Polka Fest for years. Jack and Darlene started snow birding to Yuma, Arizona while Jack played music with the A.M. Express till 2008. Jack is survived by wife Darlene of 37 years; daughter Linda Humphrey VanGrimbergen (Charlie); stepson Pete Werner (Lucy); Darlene's stepdaughter from her previous marriage Brenda Clark (Rick); many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; 4 great-great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews. Special mention niece Donna Jean Watson (Don). Preceded in death by sisters Georgie Hixson and Irene Winings and a brother James Humphrey. Jack and Darlene stopped going south in 2008 and joined a Good Sam Club, "Get Along Sams Chapter." RV traveled during the spring and summer; playing music with Norm Seeberger at Aerie No. 2 and polka mass St. Francis of Assisi. In 1952 Jack joined the amateur radio club, getting the call letters W7UIK in the early 60's. He would spend countless hours on his radios, also getting great enjoyment from the computer. Jack and Darlene found the senior centers like a home away from home. Jack spent six months in hospice at VA Hospital. All the staff were excellent in caring and comforting to Jack and family, other patients and their families were extremely loving and supportive. Visitation will be Friday and Saturday 10-5PM at Heritage and a Funeral Service 10AM Sunday, February 21, 2016 at Sunset Chapel, Fairmount Memorial Park with a celebration of life to follow the graveside service at Sinto Senior Center. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Sinto Senior Center, 1124 W. Sinto Ave., Spokane WA 99201 or Hillyard Senior Center 4001 N. Cook, Spokane, WA 99207.