Edward Judson Chaffee's Obituary
Edward Judson Chaffee passed away peacefully on April 14, 2026, at the age of 91. Ed was born on July 25, 1934, to Clare S. and Frances E. (Lovell) Chaffee in San Francisco. He was the third of four children and spent his childhood in Whittier, CA.
While attending Oregon State University, Ed met the love of his life, Gloria J. Dupree. The two were married on December 18, 1954, beginning a partnership that would span more than 71 wonderful years.
After earning his degree in Landscape Architecture, Ed and Gloria moved to Lakewood, where he and fellow alumni founded the landscape architectural firm Chaffee-Zumwalt and Associates. Through his vision and talent, Ed helped shape many spaces throughout the Pacific Northwest. His professional work ranged from residential landscape design to site planning of public projects, including, parks, golf courses and the design of Ruston Way.
Ed and Gloria raised their four children in Lakewood, creating an environment of love for family and the great outdoors. Ed embraced life and especially enjoyed tennis, golf, camping, hiking, boating, and swimming. After purchasing their beach house on Hood Canal in 2000, many of their happiest moments were spent there with their children, grandchildren, and friends, enjoying the water, the peaceful surroundings, and simply being together.
Deeply committed to civic engagement, Ed was a founding member of the Tacoma Landmarks Preservation Commission. He also served on the following boards: Preservation and Review Board of the Town of Steilacoom, Architectural Review Board of Madera (chairman), Lakewold Gardens and the Tacoma Art Museum. Additionally, Ed Served as the secretary for the Washington State Society of Landscape Architects. Later in life, Ed and Gloria devoted much of their time to travel and to organizations that reflected their dedication to faith, beauty, and community.
Ed is survived by his beloved wife, Gloria; his four children, Julie Edmonds (Craig), Michael (Kim Anh), Jeff (Tonia), and Bret (Jacquelynn); eight grandchildren, Amanda and Chad Edmonds, Graydon ChaƯee, Zachary ChaƯee (Lauren), Ashley Vetter, Josh ChaƯee (Tatti), Amber McCall (Ben), and Luke ChaƯee; and two great-granddaughters, Harper and Mila. Ed is also survived by sisters Carol Hawks and Joyce Tucker (Rob) and his brother Don (Phyllis).
Ed will be remembered for his creativity, kindness, and love for his family. His legacy lives on in the landscapes he designed, the relationships he nurtured, and the many lives he touched throughout his 91 years.
The service will be held at Mountain View Memorial Park and Cemetery, Garden Chapel on Friday May 22 at 11:00 a.m., with interment immediately after. A reception will follow at the United Methodist Church of Lakewood.
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