By Pat Jenkins
The Dispatch
Friends and admirers of Harry Everett Jr. say he would do virtually anything for people in and around Eatonville, especially children.
Everett, who died Aug. 3 at the age of 76, was a faithful volunteer in community events, including playing the role of Santa Claus at the town’s annual Christmas celebration and other holiday events. He also dressed up as the Easter Bunny and entertained kids for Eatonville Eagles Club parties, donated clothing and bicycles for children to Eatonville Family Agency, and accepted donations of food for the local food bank from people who drove by his home just outside town to see his annual display of Halloween decorations in the front yard.
“Anything for the kids,” he once told The Dispatch.
His generosity was widely known, which brought frequent nominations of him in 2012 in response to The Dispatch inviting its readers to nominate community members for recognition of their good deeds and showing kindness. One woman, in her recommendation of Everett, wrote, "He is giving, caring, thoughtful and a true friend. During Christmas season, he not only dresses as Santa, but puts a smile on the faces of many children. He also gives from the heart, helping many people out. This man never asks for anything in return. He does many acts of kindness all year long.” Another fan noted he played Santa 13 times one year.
The Eagles Club surprised him in 2015 with an award for his community service.
Everett was born in Lansing, Mich. He retired from Boeing. He was married to his wife, Linda, for 50 years until her death in 2012. They met when both worked at Boeing.
A funeral service for Everett was held Aug. 12 in Auburn, followed by a celebration of life Aug. 13 in Federal Way. Now the Eatonville community is planning another celebration of his life in the town where so many knew and appreciated him. It's scheduled for Sept. 10 at the Eagles Club hall. A service, potluck and sharing of memories will begin at 2 p.m.
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