Sadly, Jeff Walvatne passed away on May 18, 2020, at his home in Twisp, Washington. He leaves his loving wife, Debbie (Jensen) of 39 years — 38 of those years raising their family on Lopez Island. They have two sons in the United States Coast Guard, Ryan (Katie) and Mike (Amber); and six precious grandchildren, Ella, Jaxson, Brayden, Madison, Kaleigh and Morgan.

Jeff was born on Feb. 12, 1956, in Ballard, Washington, to Edwin and Jennie (Torget). He has one brother, Mike (Lorene), and two sisters, Christine Yateman (Craig) and Diane Bostick (Jim). Jeff leaves behind nieces, nephews, cousins and beloved friends who were like family to him.

Jeff’s talents were many. He was extremely competitive at Motocross in his late teens, at the delight of mom and dad. He worked during high school at Firdale Custom Framing in Edmonds, which led him to his precision woodworking skills. From this experience, and exposure working with his father, Ed, and brother, Mike, he built masterful custom cabinets and custom homes. Annually, Jeff hunted with his sons, Ryan and Mike.

Jeff was the Captain of the FV Diane-Chris, commercial gillnet boat in Bristol Bay. He loved his work during the fishing season in Egegik with his brother Mike. He was admired by all of the ‘brothers’ he had there —carrying on his father’s love for the fishing industry, with men who all possess the passion of the trade.

Jeff loved his community and friends in Twisp. He was drawn to the beauty of the Methow Valley — the scenic seasons of snow and sun — with a huge passion for snowmobiling in the winter with family and friends, and the highlights of a summer filled with boating on Lake Roosevelt and floating the rivers.

Arrangements for a Celebration of Life will be announced at a future date at the convenience of the family.

Rest in Peace Jeff — we love you!! You will NEVER be forgotten!