John A. Comstock, age 73, passed away October 13, 2019 at his home on Marrowstone Island, with his wife and daughter at his side. He was born in Portland, Oregon, November 30, 1945.
After serving in the US Navy as a sonar technician on the USS Blueback, John attended Reed College and obtained a degree in Mathematics and Natural Sciences in 1970. He was a nature and science enthusiast and his work as a biomedical engineer included cancer research, molecular evolution, and bird genetics. John served for 13 years at the San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center and retired as their Chief Biomedical Engineer in 2010.
John’s hobbies included rock climbing, backpacking, bicycling, woodworking, and playing his mandolin. He embraced the principle of “do-it-yourself” and always had a project. He generously contributed his time and energy to many community efforts, including the founding of the Biota of Marrowstone Island Project and the renovation of the Fort Flagler State Park Interpretive Trail. Above all else, John was an avid birder and enthusiastically shared his lifelong passion with everyone he met.
John is survived by his wife, Jo Ann Comstock; daughter and son-in-law, Robin and Dave Murray; grandchildren, Kieran and Linnea Murray; mother, Enid Verbon; and brother and sister-in-law, Steve and Julie Comstock.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to one of the following organizations: Hospice Foundation for Jefferson Healthcare, National Audubon Society, Center for Biological Diversity,Jefferson Land Trust, or Friends of Fort Flagler State Park.
A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.
