Jeff Eggleston

Jeff Eggleston, 61 of West Seattle, Washington passed away quietly at home surrounded by the people he loved the most, his three children and his wife, Loly on September 19, 2022 after a courageous 12 year battle with cancer. Born on May 19, 1961 to Wayne and May Eggleston in Seattle, Washington.

He graduated from Enumclaw High School where he was a track and soccer superstar in 1979. Then onto Central Washington University where he began his flying lessons and pilot journey, graduating in 1983 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Aerospace. He taught flying lessons at Auburn Regional Airport before joining the Air Force Officers Training Program where he flew the C-141 Starlifter, assigned to the 708th Military Airlift Squadron during the Gulf War, landing on most major (and minor) airports throughout the world. His long career as a commercial airline pilot began at Western Airlines, which was soon acquired by Delta Airlines, rising quickly to Captain from First Officer while he was still in his 30’s, a rarity but testament to his calm, cool demeanor and flying acumen.

While both flying for Delta, Jeff met Loly when they were based in Salt Lake City, where she became his life long co-pilot. They traveled the world with five globetrotting children, inspiring a forever love of adventure in all of them. Jeff was nine when he started sking at Crystal Mountain, it became a lifelong passion, his favorite ski destination was Big White in Canada, all his kids learned to ski while living in Park City and then in Northern Idaho. He had recently resumed fly fishing, going on a few memorable trips with his boys over the last couple years.

After his cancer was diagnosed, he became a passionate mentor, volunteering with Imerman Angels from 2013 to present to provide his positive support and inspiration to other patients. He led by example, living life to the fullest even when he wasn’t feeling up to par-including a three mile hike with his family at Mt Rainier the beginning of September.

He was proceeded in death by his mother, May, and his father, Wayne. He is survived by his wife, Loly, brother Mike (Connie), his children, Michael, Shannon, Tristan, and bonus sons Ty and Jack. He loved his family with all his heart. He is also survived by his large extended family from Chicago and Phoenix with whom he has had many happy family gatherings and reunions.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, please donate to Joshua House Hospice ( joshuashousehospice.org ) or Imerman Angels ( imermanangels.org )

Jeff’s celebration of life will be held at the Tapps Island Clubhouse, 20818 Island Parkway E, Lake Tapps, Washington on Sunday, October 2nd, 2022 at 4pm.

Please share memories, photos & condolences on the Tribute Wall, located above.

Arrangements Entrusted to Emmick Family Funeral Home of West Seattle