Harry William Jefferson of Chinook Pass
died Monday, August 23, 2021 in Swedish
Hospital in Seattle, Washington, from a
short battle with lung cancer and autoimmune
encephalitis.
Harry was born on November 2, 1946 in
Seattle, Washington, the third son of George
and Virginia (Holtzinger) Jefferson. He was
raised on the family’s ranch in the mountains
of Chinook Pass. He attended the Naches
Valley schools, graduating in the class of 1965,
excelling in football with his good friend
Frank Tobius (Tanker), whom he remained
friends with all his life.
After high school Harry worked for his brother,
George Jr., at Jefferson Logging Co. Inc. He
then began racing cars. He was a natural, considering
how he would race up Chinook Pass on Saturday nights.
He drove a race car that was owned by George
Jr. and Sherry Jefferson for quite a few years.
He made many fans and friends those years.
For many years Harry worked at his own business,
Harry Jefferson Excavating, running heavy equipment
in the Naches and Yakima areas.
Another highlight of Harry’s life was being a father
to Scott, whom he loved very much.
in the last few years Harry retired up on his property
by the Naches River where he lived his life
the way he wanted to.
He always enjoyed his visits with his family
and neighbors and his Wednesday night
dinners with his close group of friends.
Harry was preceded in death by his parents and his
son Scott.
He is survived by his brothers, George Jr., Jerome
and Tim (Lorillee) Jefferson, and numerous
nieces and nephews; his very special friends
Jeff, Cuyler, Frank and Dan, and his faithful
dog “Lucky.”
The family will have a private service.
Harry was always an advocate for rescue
dogs. If you wish to make a donation in
Harry’s name, please consider the Yakima
Humane Society, at 2405 West Birchfield
Road, Yakima, WA 98901.
Rainier Memorial Center is in charge
of arrangements.
Harry’s final words:
“Catch ya later.”