Barbara Jo McKown

June 2, 1937 — August 16, 2021

Barbara (Barb/BJ) McKown went to be with the Lord on August 16th surrounded by friends and family.

Born and raised in Seattle, Barbara graduated from Queen Anne High School in 1955, and the University of Washington in 1959, where she was a member of the Alpha Chi Omega sorority. After graduation she set off for Europe; the first big trip of many travels throughout her life. In 1961, she married Richard (Dick) McKown of Oklahoma City, OK, and settled in Ballard to start a family.

During their 49 years of marriage, Barbara and Dick had three sons, Tom, Jim and Bob. They built a summer cabin at Warm Beach, WA, and a house in her childhood neighborhood of Magnolia. Barbara loved to play tennis and was devoted to her faith, supporting international students and missionaries while volunteering with Stephen Ministry at University Presbyterian Church. Barbara was a member of bible study groups, a founding member of a book club spanning 40 years, and a patron of the Seattle arts.

Barbara was known for her enduring friendships and homemade meals and desserts during the holidays and at Warm Beach. She remained an enthusiastic card player into her 80s, encouraging family and friends to partake.

Barbara is survived by her sisters Sally Beckman, Juli Benke, three sons and their partners, and six grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dick, and parents, Walter and JR Clift.