About the Founders

 

Both John and Marilyn have been lifelong Tacoma residents. John grew up in the Lakewood area and attended Clover Park schools. Marilyn grew up in the North End of Tacoma, where she attended the following schools: Lowell, Mason and Stadium. They both graduated from the University of Washington, John with degrees in Industrial and Mechanical Engineering, and Marilyn with a degree in Elementary Education. Marilyn's first job was as a third grade teacher at Edison Elementary School in Tacoma.

John began his career in the U.S. Navy where he served as an ordinance engineering officer at a naval ammunition depot. Following his military service, John worked in Tacoma as a plant manager of Washington Steel Products. After five years there, he became President of Western Plastics Corporation, where he served from 1960 through 1980. John is currently Managing Member of Firs Management, L.L.C., a Tacoma business for personal investments and real estate.

John was a member of the Board of Directors of Puget Sound Bank until its acquisition by Key Corp. Following the acquisition, he served on the Key Corp Board of Directors until his retirement from Key Corp in 2002. He is currently on the boards of Stellar Industrial Supply and Bennett Industries.

John and Marilyn were married in 1957. They have lived in the same home in Lakewood since 1960. They have two grown children, John B. and Carolyn, and have three grandchildren.

Throughout their marriage, John and Marilyn have both been active in the Tacoma community. John served on the board of the Clover Park School District, and they both have many club affiliations. Community service has always played a part of their lives. They continue to serve on various community boards and participate in many community activities. They are well known for their generosity of both their time and resources. This foundation has been a perfect extension of their values.