While our Capehart restoration site has been filled with vibrant summer blooms, we also experienced profound losses this year with the passing of two beloved volunteers, Charlotte (Char) Reaber and Kristina (Kris) Baker.
In August, we learned of the death of Char Reaber, longtime GSP volunteer and partner of Tom McArthur. After retiring from teaching and librarianship, Char spent many years planting and tending at Capehart. Her bright spirit lives on in the mass of blue Delphiniums that return each spring—an area now known to us as Char’s Garden.
In September, we mourned the passing of Kris Baker, our fellow Forest Steward. Even while undergoing chemotherapy, Kris devoted countless hours to Capehart, drawing on her deep background in botany and biology. She led pollinator garden projects, introducing grasses and native plants to attract bees and butterflies, and inspired visitors with her knowledge and enthusiasm. Many will also remember her and her late partner, biologist Kevin Li, for their successful reintroduction of Purple Martins along Seattle’s waterfront.
Both Char and Kris left lasting marks on Capehart through their plants, their vision, and their generosity of spirit. Their contributions remind us that restoration is not only about the landscape—it is also about the people who give it life. We will miss them dearly. Thank you Char and Kris!
– Philip Vogelzang, President, Friends of Discovery Park
